According to industry sources on Monday, Samsung Electronics has established a new robotics task force team under direct supervision of its CEO, while securing a 35 percent controlling stake in Korea-based Rainbow Robotics through a 354.5 billion won (US$243 million) investment on Dec. 31, 2024.
Hyundai Motor Group, under Chairman Chung Eui-sun's leadership, has been advancing its robotics capabilities through Boston Dynamics, a U.S.-based robotics firm which was acquired through a 240 billion won personal investment by Chung in 2021.
LG Electronics is expanding its commercial robotics presence through its "LG CLOi" brand, following investments in multiple robotics firms including a $60 million stake in U.S.-based autonomous startup Bear Robotics last year.
Other major players include Hanwha Group, where Vice Chairman Kim Dong-seon oversees Hanwha Robotics Co.'s strategic planning, and Doosan Group, led by fourth-generation leader Park In-won, which produces collaborative robots for various industries through its Doosan Robotics.
The government has designated humanoid robots as a national strategic technology, promising enhanced regulatory support and R&D funding to boost the sector's growth, as robotics tend to require much time and investment.
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) projects the global robotics market to grow from $33.2 billion in 2021 to $160 billion by 2030.
"Despite top executives' direct involvement, the investment level remains conservative," said Park Chul-wan, Vice President of the Korea Association of Robot Industry. "Given past instances where robotics initiatives lost momentum, sustained investment is crucial for success."
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