SEOUL, February 04 (AJP) - POSCO Group is moving to deploy humanoid robots in steel logistics operations in cooperation with U.S.-based startup Persona AI.
The group said Wednesday that POSCO, POSCO DX, POSCO Technology Investment and Persona AI signed a memorandum of understanding a day earlier to jointly pursue on-site deployment of industrial humanoid robots.
Under the agreement, POSCO will identify steel mill tasks suitable for humanoid robots and assess their operational feasibility. POSCO DX will design automation systems and jointly develop robot models optimized for steelworks, while POSCO Technology Investment will support proof-of-concept testing.
Persona AI will develop and supply humanoid robot platforms tailored to harsh industrial environments.
Starting in February, the partners plan to conduct a test using Persona AI’s robots to manage logistics for steel coils produced at POSCO plants.
Handling finished coils, which can weigh tens of tons, typically requires crane operations. The companies aim to have humanoid robots assist workers in fastening crane belts to coils, enabling safer collaboration between humans and machines.
The group said it has been reviewing humanoid robot applications in logistics processes, including transport and material preparation at terminals, since last year, reflecting the labor-intensive nature of heavy industry operations.
If the pilot confirms operational safety and effective human-robot collaboration, POSCO plans to expand deployment and introduce the robots across broader logistics operations.
Persona AI, founded in 2024 by robotics engineers and industry specialists, is developing industrial humanoid robots combining NASA-derived robotic hand technology with proprietary precision-control systems.
POSCO Group invested a total of $3 million in the startup last year ahead of the partnership, aiming to support technologies capable of handling tasks ranging from fine assembly work to moving heavy industrial materials.
* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.