The global memory semiconductor market in the second quarter of this year is forecast to approach 350 trillion won.
According to market research firm Counterpoint Research on the 3rd, the memory semiconductor market in the second quarter of this year is expected to reach about 350 trillion won, up more than 60% from the previous quarter (the first quarter) and 380% from a year earlier.
Counterpoint Research cited explosive memory demand from the spread of artificial intelligence (AI) and rising prices as the drivers of this growth. In fact, both DRAM and NAND flash prices were tallied to have risen more than 50% from the previous quarter.
Counterpoint Research projected that Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, which are set to release earnings, will post results surpassing U.S. company Micron.
Earlier, Micron said revenue for the third quarter (March–May) of fiscal year 2026 came to $41.46 billion (about 64 trillion won). That is up 345.7% from $9.3 billion a year earlier.
Counterpoint Research said, "Samsung Electronics' memory business earnings are expected to top 110 trillion won for the first time on a quarterly basis," adding, "SK hynix is also expected to maintain strong growth." It added, "While differences in results may arise depending on factors such as the timing of long-term agreement (LTA) signings by company or whether provisions related to performance bonuses are reflected, the market's growth trend itself is very solid."
However, Counterpoint Research assessed that as the burden of manufacturing costs from rising memory prices is passed on to finished goods prices, signs of some demand slowdown are emerging. It also projected that as expanded long-term supply agreements reduce price volatility, market growth will somewhat slow starting in the second half of next year.