China has outpaced South Korea in all semiconductor technology categories, according to a recent survey by the Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning. The study, which involved 39 local experts, revealed that South Korea scored lower than China in several critical areas of chip-making, marking a shift from previous years.

In high intensity and resistance-based memory technology, South Korea achieved a score of 90.9%, while China led with 94.1%. The gap was also evident in high-performance AI semiconductors, where China scored 88.3%, surpassing South Korea's 84.1%.

The divide widened further in power semiconductors—China scored 79.8%, while South Korea trailed at 67.5%. For next-generation high-performance sensors, South Korea reached 81.3%, but China still maintained the upper hand with 83.9%. The only area where both nations were on par was in advanced semiconductor packaging technology, each scoring 74.2%.

This shift marks a stark contrast to the situation in 2022, when South Korea was ahead in several areas. The change comes despite ongoing trade sanctions imposed by the US on China, which many expected to stifle the country's technological progress. However, the latest data suggests that these restrictions may have pushed China to accelerate its chip-making capabilities and AI innovation.

The survey results have sparked concern in South Korea, prompting calls for urgent technological advancement. Samsung’s semiconductor head, Park Yong-in, recently urged employees in the System LSI division to share the responsibility of developing flagship products, emphasizing the need for innovation to maintain global competitiveness.

As both countries continue their race for semiconductor dominance, the coming months will be crucial for South Korea's strategy to reclaim its position and counter China's growing influence in chip technology.

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

This article was created with AI assistance.