Taiwan, South Korea should stop comparing, says DIGITIMES chairman

The semiconductor rivalry between Taiwan and South Korea is undergoing a fundamental shift driven by the AI boom and escalating geopolitical tensions. The call from DIGITIMES chairman to end competition and embrace collaboration signals an urgent need for industry synergy. Technologically, joint efforts in advanced process nodes and equipment could significantly mitigate global supply chain disruptions. From a compliance standpoint, rising operational costs and supply chain vulnerabilities are pressing concerns amid U.S.-China tech decoupling. In market dynamics, a coordinated push toward Southeast Asia could erode traditional contract manufacturing margins. Over the next 12 to 24 months, the industry will likely see a new paradigm of 'technological alliances + regional specialization,' where Taiwan and South Korea may lead the next wave of global semiconductor realignment if they overcome competitive friction.