Samsung Display CEO Lee Chung stated on the 22nd at the K-Display 2026 exhibition in Seoul that artificial intelligence is creating new demand across the display industry. Speaking at the event held at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Lee—who also serves as chairman of the Korea Display Industry Association—described the current period as a 'great transformation' for the sector. AI expansion is driving demand for high-performance displays in servers and data centers, while on-device AI requires low-power, high-resolution panels, Lee explained. South Korea's display industry is transitioning from LCD to OLED technology and pioneering diverse form factors including foldable, rollable, and stretchable displays, with boundaries extending into XR and AR applications.
AI Expansion Drives New Display Demand Across Multiple Segments
Lee Chung detailed how AI is generating demand in previously non-core areas for the display industry. 'AI servers and data centers are leading to demand for high-performance displays and optical components, and devices with on-device AI are requiring low-power, high-resolution panels,' Lee stated. He added that new markets are rapidly opening in smart glasses, edge devices, and humanoids—segments that were not the industry's main focus until now. Lee emphasized that this transformation must be turned into opportunity through government support, bold corporate investment, and innovative technology from materials, components, and equipment companies.
Chipflation Reduces Smartphone and IT Device Volumes in 2026
Lee Chung told reporters that the display industry outlook for the year is challenging due to chipflation. 'This year is very difficult because of chipflation, and customers are also struggling,' Lee said, noting that smartphone and IT device volumes are declining overall. Memory semiconductor prices have risen sharply since the second half of last year, increasing cost burdens for electronics manufacturers. Finished-product companies have reduced product demand in response, leading to a corresponding decrease in display demand.
Samsung Display Holds Dominant Foldable OLED Market Share Outside China
Lee Chung expressed confidence in Samsung Display's foldable OLED competitiveness. 'Excluding Chinese companies and customers, Samsung Display holds an overwhelming market share in the foldable market,' Lee stated. He added that the company believes its technology is far superior in quality, durability, and display characteristics, and will remain so going forward. Samsung Display supplied OLED panels to all models in Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z series unveiled the same night. Industry observers expect Samsung Display to supply panels for Apple's first foldable iPhone.
FAQ
What did Samsung Display's CEO say about AI's impact on the display industry on the 22nd?
Samsung Display CEO Lee Chung stated at the K-Display 2026 exhibition on the 22nd that AI is creating new demand in the display industry. He explained that AI servers and data centers are driving demand for high-performance displays and optical components, while devices with on-device AI require low-power, high-resolution panels. Lee also noted that new markets are opening rapidly in smart glasses, edge devices, and humanoids.
Why is the display industry facing challenges in 2026 according to Samsung Display's CEO?
Lee Chung told reporters that the display industry is facing difficulties in 2026 due to chipflation. Memory semiconductor prices have risen sharply since the second half of last year, increasing cost burdens for electronics manufacturers. As a result, finished-product companies have reduced product demand, leading to an overall decline in smartphone and IT device volumes and corresponding decreases in display demand.
