Helium stocks of South Korea's chipmakers to last until June, sources say

• Samsung and SK Hynix hold four to six months of helium inventory, with SK Hynix supplying roughly two-thirds of the world's memory chips
• Iranian attacks on Qatar's gas facilities have disrupted supplies from the world's largest LNG supplier, which produces nearly one-third of global helium
• Chipmakers are prioritizing inventory security over cost, sourcing from the U.S. to cushion impact from Qatari disruptions

Summary: South Korea's Helium Supply Secure Through June Amid Iran Conflict

Key Development: South Korea has sufficient helium stocks to sustain chipmaking operations until at least June, with the country's Industry Minister ruling out first-half supply disruptions despite ongoing U.S.-Israel war with Iran.

Supply Situation:

• Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix maintain 4-6 months of helium inventory
• Companies are paying premiums to secure additional supplies, primarily from the United States
• Government official confirmed "securing stock right now is the top priority" over price considerations

Market Context:

Helium prices have risen following Iranian attacks on Qatar's natural gas facilities. Qatar produces nearly one-third of global helium supply and ranks as the world's second-largest supplier after the United States. The disruptions have forced QatarEnergy to impact customer deliveries.

Companies Affected:

• Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix – supply two-thirds of global memory chips
• Both companies declined to comment on their specific helium inventory levels

Regional Impact:

Taiwan, another critical chipmaking hub, also reported secure helium supplies, though some supply chain companies are beginning to experience production impacts.

Broader Concerns:

Samsung and business groups warned lawmakers that helium and bromine are key semiconductor materials at risk from prolonged Middle East conflict. SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won cited rising energy costs as driving the search for alternative energy sources.

Market Implication: While immediate supply concerns are mitigated through mid-2026, elevated prices and geopolitical risks continue to pressure semiconductor manufacturers' operating costs.