Jakarta, INTI - Samsung Electronics Co. has hired one of Hyundai Motor Group's leading robotics executives to lead its new robotics division. This move strengthens competition in the robotics sector, which is increasingly seen as the next strategic frontier for global technology companies.
Samsung announced it will establish robotics research centers in the United States, China, and Japan. All operations will be consolidated under the RX Business Office, a new unit reporting directly to Samsung’s Co-CEO Roh Tae-moon.
Recruitment of Robotics Experts
The company appointed Dongkun Lee as head of the robotics strategy team. Lee previously held similar responsibilities at Hyundai Motor Group, including directing the development of Boston Dynamics, the American robotics company acquired by Hyundai.
The RX Business Office will be headquartered at the Samsung R&D Campus in Umyeon, Seoul, South Korea. Samsung said the unit will continue to invest in the development of the company's robotics business infrastructure.
In addition to recruiting Lee, Samsung also brought in two professors known for their expertise in robotics, Hyoun Jin Kim from Seoul National University and Uikyum Kim from Ajou University.
Analysts believe the hiring of the former Boston Dynamics executive could open up opportunities for broader cooperation between the Samsung Group and Hyundai Motor Group in the robotics sector.
Robotics is Increasingly Advancing in Tech Industry
This move demonstrates the growing strategic importance of robotics for major global technology and industrial companies. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are making robots increasingly capable of performing complex tasks.
Leading companies like Tesla, Alphabet, and Hyundai are investing heavily in developing humanoid robots and factory automation. This technology is seen as having the potential to help address labor shortages and open up new growth opportunities beyond the smartphone, chip, and electric vehicle businesses.
Conclusion
Samsung Electronics is strengthening its robotics expansion by appointing a former Hyundai Motor Group executive to lead Samsung’s robotics division. Samsung will also establish research centers in the US, China, and Japan. These moves reflect the growing position of robotics as a strategic priority amid advances in AI and the need for automation. It is also seen as potentially expanding cooperation between Samsung and Hyundai in developing robotics technology.
Read more: Indonesia Partners with China's Leading Robot Manufacturer