Joil Industrial, a manufacturer of automotive parts, has increased its workforce by 37% over the past four years as it embraces production process automation and transitions to electric vehicle components.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor reported that Minister Kim Young-hoon visited Joil Industrial, a small auto parts company in Ulsan's Buk-gu district, on September 11 to observe automation and business transition efforts and to hear from labor and management.
Since 2007, Joil Industrial has implemented robotic automation in its pressing and welding processes. Recently, the company has expanded its operations to include electric vehicle battery pack cases and has established automated systems for pressing, welding, sealing robots, and mold storage.
Contrary to fears that automation would lead to job cuts, Joil Industrial's workforce has grown from 97 employees in 2022 to 133 in September 2023, marking a 37% increase since 2022. The number of employees has risen steadily, reaching 108 in 2023, 122 in 2024, and 128 last year.
During the meeting, experienced mid-career workers from internal combustion engine parts processes shared their job transition experiences. Both labor and management at Joil Industrial urged the government to support the transition of skilled workers, secure AI specialists, and establish safety standards for new automated equipment.
The Small and Medium Business Administration provided insights into the current status and support tasks for the transition of auto parts suppliers in the Ulsan region. Joil Industrial has also utilized government support programs, including workplace innovation consulting and youth job creation incentives.
The automotive industry is a prime example of industrial transition, with simultaneous changes in products and production methods due to electrification and AI integration. The government’s newly established basic plan for employment stability in industrial transition emphasizes not only business restructuring but also training for job transitions and maintaining employment during the transition process.
Minister Kim Young-hoon stated, "The focus of industrial transition should be on people, not just technology. The case of Joil Industrial demonstrates that industrial transition can lead to job growth, and we will strengthen support to provide new job opportunities for youth and to integrate the skills of mid-career workers with new technologies."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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