SK Group is accelerating its global artificial intelligence strategy by expanding into Vietnam with plans to develop AI data centres and supporting infrastructure. The move marks a significant step in the South Korean conglomerate’s efforts to build a comprehensive AI ecosystem beyond its domestic market.
The expansion was formalized through a series of agreements signed during the Korea–Vietnam Business Forum in Hanoi. SK Group, along with its key subsidiaries SK Telecom and SK Innovation, entered into memorandums of understanding with Vietnam’s Nghe An provincial government and the National Innovation Centre (NIC) to support the country’s AI development ambitions.
A major component of the initiative involves exploring the construction of an AI data centre in Nghe And province, a rapidly growing industrial and logistics hub in north-central Vietnam. The project will also include the development of related infrastructure, positioning the region as a key node in Southeast Asia’s emerging AI ecosystem.
To support the data center operations, SK Innovation will assess energy supply solutions, including dedicated power generation linked to the Quynh Lap LNG power project. At the same time, SK Telecom will evaluate the development, construction, and operation of the facility, while also working to secure global demand for its services.
Beyond infrastructure, the collaboration aims to build a broader AI ecosystem in Vietnam. This includes cooperation on policy frameworks, technology development, and investment promotion, with the National Innovation Center playing a key role in facilitating partnerships and regulatory support.
The Vietnam initiative is expected to serve as the first overseas implementation of SK Group’s “AI full stack” strategy, which integrates semiconductors, data centers, energy solutions, and AI services into a unified model. By combining these capabilities, the company aims to create scalable and efficient AI infrastructure tailored to regional market needs.
This expansion reflects a broader industry trend where major technology players are investing heavily in AI infrastructure across Southeast Asia. With rising demand for AI computing and data processing, SK Group’s move positions it to capitalize on regional growth while strengthening its role in the global AI value chain.
