The United States government is reportedly in talks with South Korea to secure major investment in domestic memory production on American soil, as supply chain pressure grows. Since most global DRAM production occurs in South Korea through companies like SK hynix and Samsung, the U.S. is negotiating to encourage Korean memory makers to invest in American DRAM fabs.

There has been dissatisfaction with Korean companies' investment levels and delays despite promised expansions. The new strategic investment would be separate from the already-promised $350 billion U.S. expansion agreed upon last year, representing a new buildout also worth billions.

A new investment package is expected in September. Both SK Group and Samsung chairmen face increasing pressure regarding fab buildouts and plan to meet with the U.S. president. However, a modern DRAM fab still takes years for soil examination, licenses, construction, cleanroom setup, and tool acquisition, meaning a significant gap between demand and supply will persist long after any deal is announced.