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In the world of high technology, some developments make markets pause and watch closely. The ongoing talks between Nvidia and Hyundai Motor Group are one of those moments. Not because the two companies have never worked together before—they have, and quite extensively. Rather, it is because the scale of what is now being discussed goes far beyond a standard business partnership.

At the center of the discussions is the creation of an artificial intelligence technology hub in South Korea. Not merely an office or a university-affiliated research lab, but a full-scale R&D center that could become Nvidia’s third major base in Asia, alongside its existing hubs in Singapore and Taiwan.

Reports that negotiations have entered their final stage emerged Thursday in The Korea Economic Daily, citing government and industry officials. There has been no official confirmation yet. A Hyundai Motor Group spokesperson stated that no final decisions have been made regarding the project, its timeline, or its location. However, the fact that details surfaced just before Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s visit to Seoul is telling.

The timing is significant. In October 2025, Hyundai, Nvidia, and South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT signed a memorandum of understanding. Nvidia committed to supplying GPUs to Hyundai and jointly developing AI facilities in the country. Six months later, the partnership appears to be moving from broad commitments to concrete implementation.

Now attention has shifted to the final details: site selection, project structure, and strategic alignment. Huang is expected to arrive in Seoul on Friday and meet Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung. According to reports, an informal dinner is planned in Seoul’s Seongsu-dong district, with executives from SK Group, LG Group, and Naver also expected to attend.

The rumored menu? Korean pork belly...