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Helium Supply Crisis Threatens Global Semiconductor Industry

3/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The ongoing Iran-related conflict could disrupt helium supply for semiconductor manufacturing, raising energy costs and chip prices.
Lawmaker Kim Young-bae warned the disruption threatens the global chip industry because helium is crucial for heat management.
South Korea's chip sector accounts for two-thirds of global memory chips and is closely monitoring the situation.
SK Hynix reports sufficient helium inventory and GlobalFoundries is implementing mitigation plans.

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Story summary

The ongoing Iran-related conflict could disrupt helium supply for semiconductor manufacturing, raising energy costs and chip prices.
Lawmaker Kim Young-bae warned the disruption threatens the global chip industry because helium is crucial for heat management.
South Korea's chip sector accounts for two-thirds of global memory chips and is closely monitoring the situation.
SK Hynix reports sufficient helium inventory and GlobalFoundries is implementing mitigation plans.