Samsung launches new robotics division led by former Boston Dynamics strategist
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Samsung launches new robotics division led by former Boston Dynamics strategist

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(Update: )
South Korean multinational electronics corporation
car manufacturer headquartered in Seoul, South Korea
  • Samsung Electronics is establishing a new robotics division to enhance its robotics strategy and technology development.
  • The division will be led by Dongkun Lee, a former Hyundai Motor Group strategist, and will include research hubs in the US, China, and Japan.
  • This initiative is expected to strengthen collaboration with Hyundai and significantly impact the robotics industry.
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In South Korea, Samsung Electronics has announced the establishment of a new robotics division on July 21, 2026. This division will be directly overseen by Dongkun Lee, a former strategist from Hyundai Motor Group, who previously managed the robotics strategy for the company, including its subsidiary Boston Dynamics. The new division, referred to as the 'robotics experience' (RX), aims to develop mid- to long-term robotics strategies, core technology, and business execution while enhancing research capabilities both domestically and internationally. Samsung's RX division plans to set up robotics research hubs in the United States, China, and Japan, consolidating operations under Lee's leadership. The company has also recruited two academics with expertise in guidance and control for autonomous robots and drones, as well as the design of dexterous robotic hands. This focus on dexterity is crucial for humanoid robots to perform physical tasks effectively. Samsung has acknowledged the challenges associated with implementing such functions in humanoid robots and has set a goal to achieve tangible results by 2026. In addition to its internal developments, Samsung's moves are expected to foster greater collaboration with Hyundai in the robotics sector. Following Hyundai's full acquisition of Boston Dynamics, the company is also looking to deploy Atlas humanoid robots in its factories across the United States. This strategic shift comes as American tech giants are increasingly investing in robotics, with notable acquisitions such as Meta's purchase of Assured Robot Intelligence and Amazon's acquisition of Fauna Robotics earlier this year. Samsung's announcement has positively impacted its stock, with shares rising approximately 6% following the news. The company is reportedly planning to invest around $13 billion in developing physical AI infrastructure and humanoid robot manufacturing facilities in Gumi, South Korea. This significant investment underscores Samsung's commitment to advancing its robotics capabilities and positioning itself as a leader in the evolving robotics landscape.

Context

The field of robotics has seen significant growth and transformation in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, increased investment, and a growing demand for automation across various industries. As of 2026, the global robotics market is projected to reach unprecedented levels, with investments pouring in from both private and public sectors. This surge in funding is largely attributed to the rising need for efficiency and productivity in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and even consumer services. Companies are increasingly recognizing the potential of robotics to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and enhance precision, leading to a robust investment landscape that is reshaping the industry. One of the most notable trends in robotics investments is the focus on artificial intelligence (AI) integration. Robotics companies are increasingly incorporating AI technologies to enhance the capabilities of robots, enabling them to perform complex tasks with greater autonomy and adaptability. This trend is particularly evident in sectors such as autonomous vehicles, where AI-driven robots are being developed to navigate and operate in dynamic environments. Additionally, the rise of collaborative robots, or cobots, which work alongside human workers, is gaining traction as businesses seek to augment their workforce rather than replace it. This shift towards human-robot collaboration is fostering a new wave of investment aimed at developing safer and more efficient robotic systems. Another significant trend is the diversification of investment sources. While traditional venture capital has played a crucial role in funding robotics startups, there is a noticeable increase in interest from corporate investors and government initiatives. Major technology companies are investing heavily in robotics to complement their existing product lines and explore new market opportunities. Furthermore, governments around the world are recognizing the strategic importance of robotics in maintaining competitive advantages and are launching initiatives to support research and development in this field. These investments are not only aimed at fostering innovation but also at addressing workforce displacement concerns associated with automation. As we look to the future, the robotics investment landscape is expected to continue evolving, with emerging technologies such as soft robotics, swarm robotics, and advanced sensor technologies gaining traction. The ongoing development of these technologies will likely attract further investment, as they promise to unlock new applications and capabilities for robots. Additionally, the increasing emphasis on sustainability and ethical considerations in robotics will shape investment strategies, as stakeholders seek to ensure that advancements in robotics contribute positively to society. Overall, the current trends in robotics investments reflect a dynamic and rapidly changing environment, characterized by technological innovation, diverse funding sources, and a commitment to enhancing human-robot collaboration.