Chips and Chimaek: Nvidia's Jensen Huang Toasts AI Future with Samsung and Hyundai Leaders in Seoul - October 30, 2025

On October 30, 2025, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang made a splashy entrance into Seoul during his first official visit to South Korea in over 15 years, speaking candidly to a swarm of media upon arrival at Incheon Airport amid the buzz of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit. Huang, whose company recently hit a historic $5 trillion market cap, addressed pressing topics like U.S.-China trade tensions on AI chips, expressing optimism about President Donald Trump's recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and hinting at potential deals that could "please U.S. interests." The day's highlight unfolded in upscale Gangnam, where Huang hosted an unconventional "chimaek" (chicken and beer) dinner at Kkanbu Chicken restaurant with Samsung Electronics Chairman Jay Y. Lee and Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung—symbolizing deepening alliances in the AI ecosystem. Surrounded by hundreds of fans and reporters clamoring for selfies, the trio raised glasses in a traditional "love shot" toast, with Huang footing the bill and even distributing extra fried chicken to the crowd outside. Discussions reportedly touched on collaborations in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) development, AI factories, robotics, and autonomous vehicles, underscoring South Korea's pivotal role in Nvidia's global supply chain. Huang's charm offensive continued with a surprise appearance at the GeForce Gamer Festival at COEX, signing merchandise and celebrating 25 years of GeForce in Korea, before gearing up for his APEC keynote on October 31 in Gyeongju. This whirlwind visit not only spotlighted Nvidia's strategic pivot amid geopolitical headwinds but also showcased Huang's knack for blending high-stakes business with cultural flair, drawing "Jensanity"-level adoration from locals.
GuestsJensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia
Jay Y. Lee, Chairman of Samsung Electronics
Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group