SEOUL - A simmering diplomatic row with Japan is threatening South Korea's output of components that drive smartphones and computer displays, which analysts say could batter the global tech market and hike prices for consumers.
With Japan so far refusing to negotiate, the news is bleak for top market players Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. "Ultimately, this will bring a stagnation or regression of the world's most cutting-edge technology. The price of gadgets may rise, as chips will likely be in short supply." Mr Len Jelinek, executive director of semiconductor research at IHS Markit, warned that any reduction or elimination in the availability of the materials would"significantly impede" chip production.
A Samsung official told AFP that the firm was reviewing measures"to minimise further impact on our production" but declined to comment further.