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Korean Industrial Insight No. 23 of AI, Semiconductors, Batteries, Electric vehicles, Robot, and Bio |
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2026-04-02 |
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Ⅰ. AI INDUSTRY TRENDS
1. AMD CEO Lisa Su, “Pleased to Strengthen Cooperation with Korean AI Companies.”
- Met with Lim Mun-Yeong, Vice Chairman of the Presidential Council on National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and Ha Jung-woo, Senior Presidential Secretary for AI Future Planning. Consensus reached on Korea’s “Big Three” AI strategy.
- “Supporting synergy for Korean companies in AMD’s open AI ecosystem.”
The South Korean government and AMD have agreed to cooperate in response to the global competition for AI supremacy. They pledged to strengthen public-private cooperation to enable more Korean companies to generate synergies through AMD’s open AI ecosystem.
In particular, Lisa Su, CEO of AMD, who has been visiting Korea since the 18th, stated, “I am pleased that cooperation with Korean AI companies has been solidified through this visit.”
On the 19th, during a meeting with CEO Lisa Su, Lim Mun-Yeong, Vice Chair of the Presidential Council of National AI Strategy, and Ha Jung-woo, Senior Presidential Secretary for AI Future Planning, agreed on the importance of building national infrastructure and regional industrial transformation (AI-driven transformation) to leap forward as one of the “Top 3 in AI.” They decided to form a comprehensive AI alliance encompassing everything from talent development to joint research and development (R&D). In particular, they agreed to strengthen cooperation so that Korea’s unique AI competitiveness and AMD’s open infrastructure can combine to generate significant synergy.
During the meeting, they held in-depth discussions focusing on cooperation to secure Korea’s global AI competitiveness and facilitate the AI transformation of regional industries. In particular, they agreed on the importance of regional industry AX—such as data center construction—for balanced regional development, development and joint R&D linked to the “K-Moonshot” initiative.
Meanwhile, it is reported that CEO Su met with executives from major domestic AI and semiconductor companies, including Samsung Electronics, Naver, and Upstage, during her visit to Korea to discuss the expansion of the semiconductor supply chain and ecosystem.
2. Shinsegae, Lotte, and Coupang’s ‘AI Competition’ Heats Up
- Shinsegae to build largest data center in Korea with Reflection AI
- Coupang streamlines Rocket Delivery… Lotte and Ocado accelerate on-site integration
With artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities identified as the biggest topic in the retail industry this year, attention is focused on who will seize market leadership as the strategies of companies like Shinsegae, Lotte, and Coupang are gradually revealed. Beyond just the quality of products, such as price and quality, the ability to efficiently operate and integrate AI has emerged as a key focal point.
While companies share the common goal of boosting operational efficiency and generating actual profits through AI investment, their specific strategies differ, drawing significant attention. Shinsegae’s focus is on building its own data center, Coupang’s on logistics optimization, and Lotte’s on a field-centric approach.
According to industry sources on the 20th, Shinsegae is partnering with U.S.-based Reflection AI to invest in South Korea’s largest AI data center. On the 16th (local time), the two companies signed a “Strategic Partnership for the Establishment of the Korea Sovereign AI Factory” in San Francisco, U.S.
The two companies plan to build an AI data center in Korea with a power capacity of 250 MW. This is the largest scale, far surpassing the size of AI data centers currently built or planned in the country. To this end, they plan to establish a joint venture (JV) within the year and proceed with follow-up procedures such as site selection and obtaining permits.
The key question is what kind of synergy this will create with its core retail business, and the industry expects the so-called "E-Mart 2.0" era to gain momentum. It is anticipated that a system will be established to address the retail industry’s structural low-profit issues, with AI predicting demand to minimize inventory and optimize delivery routes in real time.
In particular, the company explains that combining its accumulated customer data and know-how with newly developed AI capabilities will enable the realization of “AI commerce.” It plans to introduce an AI agent that selects optimized, personalized products for customers on online malls and handles everything from payment to delivery.
On the 17th (local time), the day after Shinsegae’s announcement, Coupang Inc., the parent company of Coupang, announced at the “NVIDIA AI Conference & Expo” that it had established an “AI Factory” to advance all aspects of e-commerce logistics and delivery through a partnership with NVIDIA. This is a dedicated AI cloud system built in-house by Coupang, serving as a platform capable of rapidly processing large-scale data and developing and operating AI models.
Coupang is currently using an AI model to predict and manage the entire process—from inventory management at logistics centers to optimizing delivery routes for customer orders. According to the company, this AI model has improved logistics center work schedules and product loading efficiency, while GPU (graphics processing unit) utilization rates have risen from 65% to 95%.
The AI strategies of Shinsegae and Coupang are similar yet distinct. Shinsegae aims to build AI infrastructure through massive investment to structurally introduce a new retail paradigm, while Coupang’s strategy can be interpreted as strengthening its dominance by enhancing the efficiency of its already unrivaled logistics system.
Lotte is accelerating its transition to apply AI across its entire group of affiliates. A notable practical approach involves partnering with companies that possess proven technologies ready for immediate deployment in the field. For instance, it is collaborating with Naver to introduce agentic AI in shopping, marketing, and ESG sectors, and plans to invest 1 trillion won by 2030 to build six automated logistics centers (CFC: Customer Fulfillment Center) nationwide in partnership with the UK’s Ocado.
Additionally, Korea Seven (7-Eleven) unveiled "AX Lab 3.0," a futuristic convenience store incorporating humanoid robots and AI technology, in collaboration with Lotte Innovate. The store is considered significant for demonstrating how robots and AI operate in actual retail settings.
An industry insider stated, "Just as selling high-quality products at the right price is crucial, the ability to operate AI quickly and effectively will likely become a key competitive factor in the future retail industry," adding, "This is a positive change that will enhance consumer benefits and boost overall industry productivity."
3. Microsoft, “South Korea’s AI Market to Grow 7.5-fold in 6 Years.”
- Microsoft AI Tour Seoul
- Annual growth rate of 30%, among the highest globally
- “Moving beyond experimentation to the frontier”
"There is clear momentum in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Korea."
Scott Guthrie, Executive Vice President of the Microsoft (MS) Cloud+AI group, made this remark on the 26th at the "MS AI Tour Seoul," praising South Korea’s AI growth trajectory. The 'MS AI Tour' is a major global event that Microsoft holds annually, touring major cities around the world. Cho Wonwoo, CEO of Microsoft Korea, emphasized, "More than 70% of Korean companies have adopted AI, and over 30% of the population are users of generative AI," adding, "Korea ranks first globally in the growth rate of individual AI usage."
According to a Microsoft report, South Korea’s cumulative AI adoption rate stood at 81.4%, the highest among the countries surveyed. The South Korean AI market is also projected to grow rapidly from its current size of $7 billion (approximately 10.5 trillion won) to $50 billion (approximately 75 trillion won) by 2032. However, rapid AI adoption does not immediately translate into business value. CEO Cho emphasized, “The AI transition is no longer a question of whether to adopt it, but rather how to connect it to tangible business results.” Vice President Guthrie also noted, “When we asked Microsoft’s ‘Copilot’ to gauge how Koreans view AI, we received a response indicating that while there is strong optimism, realistic concerns also persist.” While various industries—including manufacturing, gaming, and media—are moving quickly, concerns remain regarding data security and the responsible deployment of AI.
On this day, Microsoft presented the "Frontier Transition" framework to help companies resolve these concerns and generate tangible business results that go beyond mere technology adoption. This framework centers on four key elements: △enhancing employee experience, △innovating customer engagement, △redesigning business processes, and △accelerating innovation.
Vice President Guthrie stated, "'Frontier Transformation' enables a completely new way of operating that goes beyond optimizing existing systems," adding, "We will actively support Korean companies to grow into trusted frontier companies leading AI innovation."
Ⅱ. SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY TRENDS
1. “Unrivaled Lead in Semiconductors”: Samsung Electronics Announces ‘Largest-Ever’ Investment Plans
- Announcement of 2026 corporate value enhancement plan
- Investment scale up 21.7% compared to last year
- Hints at mega M&A in robotics and automotive electronics
- Goal is to secure leadership in the AI semiconductor era
Samsung Electronics will allocate a total of over 110 trillion won to capital expenditures and research and development (R&D) this year to secure leadership in the AI semiconductor era and maintain its dominant lead in high-value-added memory. This is a 21.7% increase from last year (90.4 trillion won) and marks the largest investment in the company’s history; it is the first time Samsung Electronics’ annual investment has exceeded 100 trillion won.
Samsung Electronics announced its “2026 Samsung Electronics Corporate Value Enhancement Plan,” which includes these details, on the 19th. This year’s investment scale has surpassed last year’s record, which was the previous highest. Most of the investment is expected to be concentrated in the Device Solutions (DS) division, which oversees the semiconductor business. Last year, Samsung Electronics invested a total of 90.4 trillion won, including 37.7 trillion won in R&D and 52.7 trillion won in capital expenditures.
On the same day, Samsung Electronics stated that the goal of the enhancement plan is “to secure leadership in the AI semiconductor era as the world’s only semiconductor company capable of providing a ‘one-stop solution’ that encompasses memory, foundry (semiconductor contract manufacturing), and advanced packaging,” adding that “We will secure a firm position in the high-value-added memory market, such as HBM (High Bandwidth Memory), maintain a significant lead over competitors, and ensure the highest product competitiveness by improving investment efficiency.” The company added, “We will leap forward as a leading AI company, strengthen our new growth portfolio, and reorganize our business structure around future-oriented sectors like AI and advanced robotics based on AI-driven innovation to secure mid- to long-term growth momentum.”
Regarding specific plans, they said, “To secure leadership in the AI semiconductor era, we will execute a total of over 110 trillion won in facility and R&D investments by 2026,” and added, “We will pursue M&A (mergers and acquisitions) of significant scale in future growth sectors such as advanced robotics, MedTech, automotive electronics, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning).” Consequently, expectations are rising for major acquisition deals, including mega-deals, in sectors such as △robotics, △medical technology, △automotive electronics, and △HVAC.
Samsung Electronics also stated that it would provide additional returns to shareholders if any remaining funds are generated after deducting the amount already returned to shareholders from 50% of the free cash flow (FCF) for 2024–2026, as well as this year’s regular dividend (9.8 trillion won).
Jeon Young-hyun, Vice Chairman and Head of Samsung Electronic’s DS Division, stated at the shareholders’ meeting held on the 18th, “The DS Division is the world’s only semiconductor company capable of providing a ‘one-stop solution’ ranging from logic to memory, foundry (semiconductor contract manufacturing), and packaging,” adding, “We will continue to build the technological competitiveness needed to secure leadership in the AI semiconductor market.”
To meet the surging demand for AI semiconductors, Samsung Electronics is streamlining the construction schedule for P4 (Factory 4) at its Pyeongtaek Campus, the industry’s largest semiconductor production hub. The company is also proceeding with construction of key facilities for P5 (Factory 5).
In parallel, the company is constructing a semiconductor production plant in the Yongin Cluster and is building a foundry facility in Taylor, Texas, equipped with cutting-edge processes of 3 nanometers (nm•1 nm = 1 billionth of a meter) or smaller, with the goal of commencing operations by the end of this year.
Furthermore, Samsung Electronics joined NVIDIA’s supply chain by becoming the first in the world to begin mass production and shipment of HBM4 (6th generation) in February, which boasts industry-leading performance. It is also strengthening its presence in the HBM market, having been designated as a priority supplier of HBM4 by AMD.
2. SimPlatform and DB HiTek Expand AI Platform for Semiconductor Processes
SimPlatform, an industrial AI transformation (AX) platform company, announced on the 19th that it is collaborating with DB HiTek to expand the application of its AI platform—currently used in semiconductor manufacturing processes—to the Sangwoo Plant, thereby accelerating the intelligent transformation of its processes.
According to the company, this expansion is being driven by the results of the AI platform currently operating at the Bucheon plant, with the core objective being the advancement of a data-driven operational system across the entire semiconductor manufacturing process. SimPlatform is continuing its collaboration with DB HiTek to broaden the scope of AI utilization based on process data and to enhance the precision and stability of the process operating environment.
SimPlatform has established an AI-based process operation system that collects and integrates various data generated during the manufacturing process and uses AI analysis to detect process anomalies and classify quality issues. Given that process precision and stability are critical in the semiconductor industry, industrial AI applications verified in actual production environments are considered a key competitive advantage for global market expansion.
In particular, SimPlatform has expanded the scope of its AI platform’s application within semiconductor processes by extending it from DB HiTek’s Bucheon plant to its Sangwoo plant, thereby securing a foothold for entry into the global market. In January, the company signed a Proof of Concept (PoC) agreement with Infineon Technologies, a European power semiconductor firm, and on the 11th, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation in future energy sectors—including nuclear fusion and next-generation nuclear power plants—through the K-Moonshot Project, a national AI strategy initiative, rapidly broadening its scope of application.
A company official stated, "We are expanding the application of our AI-based process operations, which have been validated at the Bucheon plant, to the Sangwoo plant, marking the full-scale expansion of our AI platform," adding, "This year will be a turning point as we expand our scope of application from global semiconductor companies like Infineon to advanced energy sectors such as nuclear fusion and next generation nuclear power plants."
3. 50 Trillion Won to Be Invested Over 5 Years to Foster ‘K-NVIDIA’… 10 Trillion Won in AI and Semiconductor Investments This Year
- Including a virtuous cycle of private investment… Phased, concentrated investment starting with initial infrastructure development
- Industry consensus: “Golden opportunity to enter global market… Large-scale investment needed”
The government will allocate 50 trillion won from the 150 trillion won National Growth Fund over five years to foster "K-NVIDIA." This year alone, it plans to supply approximately 10 trillion won in long-term patient capital to focus investments on the AI and semiconductor sectors.
The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Financial Services Commission held a joint public-private sector meeting at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, at 3:30 p.m. on the 17th to discuss the implementation of the "K-NVIDIA Development Project" under the National Growth Fund.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Bae Kyung-hoon, Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eog-weon, and Korea Development Bank CEO Park Sang-jin, as well as representatives from domestic AI semiconductor companies (Rebellions, FuriosaAI, HyperAccel, DeepX, and Mobilint).
Currently, the global AI semiconductor market is highly dependent on specific companies, and due to the massive power consumption and operating costs of GPUs, there are limitations in responding to the explosive demand for AI services.
In response, the Ministry of Science and ICT has proposed the "AI Semiconductor Industry Leap Strategy" to focus on the short-term development of low-power, low-cost NPUs (neural processing units) while gradually building the capabilities needed to lead the future AI semiconductor market.
As part of this effort, the ministry identified the so-called "K-NVIDIA Development" project—which supports the design and production of domestically produced AI semiconductors—and proposed it to the Financial Services Commission (FSC). The FSC subsequently included the "K-NVIDIA Development" project among the seven mega-projects selected for the first round of the National Growth Fund in December of last year.
The FSC plans to invest a total of 10 trillion won in the AI and semiconductor sectors this year, accompanied by investment strategies tailored to the initial infrastructure construction, operational, and maintenance phases, to induce a virtuous cycle of private investment in the AI sector and enable domestic AI companies to make a stable leap forward amid global competition for technological supremacy.
In particular, the FSC plans to go beyond fostering K-NVIDIA and establishing the National AI Computing Center to actively identify follow-up mega-projects in the AI sector in collaboration with the industry and the Ministry of Science and ICT.
Representatives from AI and semiconductor companies attending the meeting presented roadmaps for the development of next-generation ultra-low-power, high-performance NPU products and outlined strategies to target the global AI market, which has shifted toward GPU-centric solutions.
The companies unanimously emphasized the importance of large-scale investment through the National Growth Fund, stating that if substantial investment resources are secured in a timely manner, they could significantly accelerate the mass production timeline for next-generation NPU products currently under development and secure the “golden time opportunity” to enter the global market.
Deputy Prime Minister Bae Kyung-hoon stated, “To ensure our companies do not miss the golden opportunity to secure a leading position in the global market, the Ministry of Science and ICT and the FSC will work as one team and cooperate closely.”
FSC Chairman Lee Eog-weon stated, “We will do our utmost to supply large-scale funds to the AI industry in a timely manner through the National Growth Fund—including fostering ‘K-NVIDIA’ and establishing a National AI Computing Center—to deliver tangible results that the private sector can clearly feel.”
Ⅲ. BATTERY AND ELECTRIC VEHICLE INDUSTRY TREND
1. Equipped with K-Battery and K-Display… Accelerating Efforts to Capture the Korean Market
- The Korean market is one of Porsche’s key markets.
Porsche Korea sold a total of 10,746 vehicles last year. This represents a 30% increase from the previous year and ranks fifth globally.
Vice President Christiane Zorn explained, “The share of overseas and emerging markets, including Korea, in Porsche’s total market expanded from 13% in 2018 to 20% last year,” adding, “Korea, in particular, is one of our core markets, with its share of emerging markets rising from 14% in 2018 to 19% last year.”
In particular, Porsche Korea noted that South Korea has a higher sales volume of electrified vehicles compared to the global market.
It is believed that South Korea’s high demand for electrified vehicles was a key factor in the decision to introduce the Cayenne Electric to South Korea first in the Northeast Asia region.
According to Porsche Korea, electrified models—including fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles—accounted for 62% of total sales last year.
This figure far exceeds the proportion of electrified vehicle sales in Porsche’s global market (34%).
In particular, the Cayenne Electric features battery cells from LG Energy Solution and a curved display from LG Display, reflecting strengthened collaboration with domestic companies.
Porsche Korea plans to introduce the new '911 Turbo S' and 'Macan GTS' to the domestic market in the first half of this year, followed by the Cayenne Electric and the Korea-exclusive 'Panamera Red Exclusive' in the second half.
Mathias Busse, CEO of Porsche Korea, stated, “Korea is a market with high demand and a deep understanding of high-performance electrified models,” adding, “The Cayenne Electric will demonstrate the path sports SUVs must take in the era of electrification, and through this, we will set a new standard.”
2. Kim Dong-Myung, CEO of LG Energy Solution, “While EVs Face Crisis, ESS Presents Opportunity.”
LG Energy Solution is accelerating its business restructuring by defining the slowdown in the electric vehicle (EV) market as an opportunity for a “shift toward ESS-centered growth” . The company’s strategy is to secure growth momentum by expanding ESS production capacity, particularly in North America, and strengthening cooperation with major clients such as Tesla.
Kim Dong-myung, CEO of LG Energy Solution, told reporters after the annual general meeting held at LG Twin Towers in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 20th, “We are currently in a ‘value shift’ period; while this is a crisis for EVs, it is an opportunity for ESS.”
He explained that while the entire battery market is facing a crisis due to slowing EV demand in recent years, the company intends to achieve a business restructuring based on new business models.
Regarding the growth potential of the ESS market, CEO Kim stated, “As the structure of electricity demand is changing rapidly, we are encountering new growth opportunities faster than before,” adding, “This growth momentum will not be available to all battery companies but will be concentrated among a limited number of companies capable of meeting local production and supply chain requirements.”
LG Energy Solution has set this year’s target for new ESS orders at a level exceeding last year’s record of 90 GWh. The company also plans to expand its global ESS battery production capacity to over 60 GWh by the end of this year. In particular, the company plans to concentrate its production capacity in North America.
CEO Kim said, “In North America, we are rapidly converting existing EV assets into ESS, and as the only non-Chinese local manufacturer of LFP batteries for ESS, we are swiftly meeting customers’ ‘Non-PFE’ supply chain needs.”
Regarding the production strategy in Europe, he noted, “The Poland plant is making a significant shift toward ESS production,” adding, “Since localization is crucial, we intend to respond to local companies requesting ESS solutions.”
The company also plans to expand cooperation with major clients. CEO Kim explained, “We have had a long-standing relationship with Tesla and are actively working on the EV sector, but just as we are collaborating on ESS, we intend to continue expanding and developing this relationship.”
Regarding the EV market, CEO Kim predicted, “The long-term trend of demand growth remains valid,” adding, “EV demand recovery will gain momentum when next-generation EV models enter full-scale mass production in 2029–2030 and begin offering differentiated value.”
At the shareholders’ meeting held that day, LG Energy Solution presented its mid-to-long-term strategy, which includes refining its business portfolio, strengthening product and future competitiveness, and securing a foundation for generating free cash flow. In particular, the company plans to increase the share of ESS and new businesses from the current level of approximately 20% to the mid-40% range in the future to enhance the stability of its business structure.
In terms of product strategy, the company will strengthen its competitiveness by focusing on LFP batteries for prismatic ESS, LMR batteries for EVs, the cylindrical 46 series, and pouch-type high-voltage mid-nickel batteries. For next-generation technologies, the company will concurrently develop all-solid-state batteries and sodium-ion batteries.
Meanwhile, at the shareholders’ meeting held that day, all major agenda items, including the approval of financial statements, amendments to the articles of incorporation, and the approval of director compensation limits, were passed as proposed.
3. EcoPro Unveils Growth Strategy at Shareholders’ Meeting… Expansion of Next-Generation Batteries and New Businesses
- Presented three major goals: Breakthrough technology, global value chain, and efficiency
- Pursuing new businesses such as recycling and all-solid-state batteries… Advancing the supply chain
EcoPro unveiled a growth strategy centered on technological competitiveness and business structure innovation at its regular shareholders’ meeting.
EcoPro announced on the 26th that it held its 28th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders at its headquarters in Ochang, North Chungcheong Province, and presented three major management goals: securing cutting-edge technological capabilities, optimizing the global value chain, and improving management efficiency.
The CEO of EcoPro stated, “We will strive to strengthen our technological leadership, secure a leading position in the next-generation materials market, ensure cost competitiveness through the optimization of the global value chain, and establish a sustainable management system.”
The company plans to maintain its competitiveness in high-nickel cathode materials while accelerating the development and commercialization of next-generation materials such as all-solid-state batteries and sodium-ion batteries. At the same time, it will fully launch businesses covering the entire battery lifecycle based on recycling technology.
In particular, ternary batteries are considered highly cost-effective as they allow for the recovery of over 90% of key metals such as nickel, cobalt, and manganese. To this end, EcoPro also approved an amendment to its articles of incorporation to add renewable energy business to its corporate objectives.
Furthermore, the company intends to strengthen its global supply chain from securing raw materials to producing cathode materials by expanding its investment in a nickel smelter in Indonesia.
At the shareholders’ meeting held that day, all major agenda items—including the approval of financial statements, amendments to the articles of incorporation, and the appointment of directors—were passed as proposed.
Ⅵ. ROBOT INDUSTRY TRENDS
1. Samsung Electronics Establishes Dedicated Team for Robot Hand Development
- Future robotics task force ‘Hand Lab’
- Adopts tendon-based mechanism
- Leading the way in humanoid commercialization
Samsung Electronics has established a dedicated organization for robot hand development. Based on the assessment that hand functions capable of picking up, grasping, and manipulating objects with human-like precision will be central to humanoid robots, the company is embarking on the development of high-performance, high-degrees-of-freedom robot hands.
It has been confirmed that Samsung Electronics has established the 'Hand Lab' within its Future Robotics Promotion Group. The Hand Lab is a dedicated organization tasked with advancing Physical AI and developing practical robotic hands that can be immediately applied to the manufacturing lines of Samsung Electronics and its affiliates. The Hand Lab has been organized under the Hardware (HW) Group of Samsung Electronics' Future Robotics Promotion Group.
Unlike other humanoid robots that focus on walking, Samsung Electronics has turned its attention to developing robotic hands because creating sophisticated robotic hands is one of the major challenges in commercializing humanoids.
It is understood that Hand Lab has adopted a tendon-based drive mechanism to achieve precise robotic hand construction. The tendon mechanism involves pulling tendons from the forearm to move the fingers, similar to a human hand. Unlike existing robotic hands that use direct motor drives, this structure is more complex and difficult to assemble.
It is reported that Tesla is facing difficulties in mass-producing its humanoid robot "Optimus" due to a lack of precision in the robotic hand.
The company is also concurrently developing a tactile sensing solution specifically for robotic hands. To perform tasks with the precision of a human hand, it is essential to go beyond simply grasping objects and to be able to perceive their texture and firmness.
Samsung Electronics is focusing its robotics business strategy on manufacturing automation and the implementation of smart factories rather than consumer sales. Securing robotic hand technology is a prerequisite for achieving this goal.
Earlier this month, Samsung Electronics announced its plan to convert all manufacturing lines into AI-driven autonomous factories by 2030. The company is currently proceeding in phases with the introduction of assembly robots to handle assembly processes. The robotic hand technology being developed by Hand Lab is expected to become a core component of these assembly robots.
Samsung Electronics is expected to focus on developing robotic hand technology so that it can expand its scope from manufacturing lines to humanoids for the home and retail sectors. To this end, Samsung Electronics is significantly expanding its robotic development workforce.
Collaboration with Rainbow Robotics, which was acquired by Samsung Electronics, is also expected. The high-degree-of-freedom robotic hand developed by Hand Lab can be tested in various ways through Rainbow Robotics.
A senior official from Samsung Electronics’ Future Robotics Task Force explained the significance of developing the robotic hand, stating, “If we secure core humanoid technologies and identify our role in the market, Samsung will capture a significant share of the global market.”
Samsung Electronics’ Future Robotics Initiative consists of the Hardware Group and the AI Group.
The HW Group develops the entire hardware system for humanoids, including mechanisms, electronics, and actuators. Its goal is to apply humanoids to various environments such as homes, manufacturing, and retail. The AI Group is focused on developing AI technologies related to humanoid locomotion and operation based on reinforcement and imitation learning.
2. Won Yu-hyun, CEO of Daedong Corporation, “Accelerating Agricultural AI and Robotics Business.”
Won Yu-hyun, Co-CEO of Daedong, who was reappointed at the regular shareholders’ meeting, stated, “As I have once again been entrusted with this heavy responsibility as CEO, I will ensure that the future businesses we have been preparing are proven successful through tangible results.”
Since his appointment as CEO in 2020, CEO Won has focused on laying the groundwork for Daedong’s transformation into a future-oriented agricultural enterprise. He established smart agricultural machinery, farming, and mobility as future growth strategies, and to achieve this, he defined a direction to expand the company’s existing business structure—which had been centered on agricultural machinery—into a data and software-based model, alongside a comprehensive digital transformation (DT) across all business operations.
Through these efforts, Daedong secured core competencies in autonomous agricultural machinery and connected technologies, establishing itself as a leading company in the domestic smart agricultural machinery market.
Starting in 2023, the company accelerated the pace of bringing its future business initiatives to fruition. It commercialized agricultural robots and precision farming technologies, which had previously been in the pilot phase, and launched them domestically, establishing robotics and data-driven businesses as new growth pillars. Furthermore, to internalize and advance the AI and robotics technologies essential for agriculture, Daedong established related companies such as Daedong AI Lab and Daedong Robotics, thereby further strengthening its core capabilities in future businesses.
◆ CEO Won Yu-hyun, Reappointed for a Second Term, Accelerates Future Business Initiatives
Starting in 2026, when his new term begins, CEO Won will focus on strengthening the competitiveness of future businesses to respond to the massive trend of industrial restructuring driven by AI and robotics. Building on the future business initiatives Daedong has been pursuing since 2020, the company aims to leap forward as a specialized AI and robotics enterprise in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors by enhancing the competitiveness of its five core business areas: △Precision Agriculture, △Robotics, △Smart Farming, △AI Agents, and △Connected Solutions.
To this end, the group is promoting AX (AI Transformation). It plans to strengthen data-driven decision-making systems and improve operational efficiency across the entire value chain—from R&D to production and services—to enhance business execution and productivity.
Additionally, the company plans to expand the domestic and international distribution of future agriculture products, including AI-based autonomous agricultural machinery, agricultural robots, precision agriculture, and agricultural AI agents. Through this, the company intends to integrate and manage the agricultural data collected, establish an operational system that enhances by using AI capabilities, and secure a foundation for sustainable growth.
CEO Won stated, "We will drive change in the field based on AI, data, and robotics, and grow Daedong into an AI robotics company that leads agricultural innovation."
3. Kakao Mobility Expands Robot Ecosystem… Accelerates Commercialization by Improving Utilization Rate 8-Fold
- Implementing automated ‘orchestration’ in robot dispatching
- revenue tripled, proving tangible business utility
- Establishing service standards through collaboration with domestic robot companies
Kakao Mobility recently presented a vision to leap forward as a “physical AI-based future mobility company,” strengthening the capabilities of its mobility platform while leading the digital transformation (DX) of spaces in the robotics sector.
In particular, the company is drawing attention for demonstrating tangible business value by applying platform technology to robot services—such as increasing robot utilization rates by more than eightfold through recent pilot tests at major domestic hotels.
Robot Sales Triple… Robots Evolve into ‘Profit-Generating Models’
Kakao Mobility has collaborated with Robotis, a company specializing in autonomous robots, to establish a commercial robot delivery model at premium hotels in Korea, such as Shilla Stay Seocho and Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, achieving tangible results.
Since the platform’s launch, the average daily robot utilization rate has increased approximately eightfold compared to the initial rollout phase, and delivery failures have been drastically reduced, achieving a 100% delivery success rate. In particular, by going beyond simple delivery and integrating a “QR-based ordering system” with the robot platform, room service sales increased approximately threefold compared to pre-implementation levels. This signifies that, through the adoption of the platform, the robot service has evolved from a mere “cost-saving” or “promotional” tool into a “revenue-generating model” that expands customer touchpoints and drives sales.
At the same time, by having robots handle simple, repetitive tasks, the company has established an optimal operational structure that allows staff to focus more on high-value-added services, such as customer service.
Applying MaaS Know-How… An Automated ‘Orchestration’ System
These achievements were made possible by integrating robots and service infrastructure into a single platform to enhance efficiency. Kakao Mobility integrated individual technologies—such as infrastructure, security, heterogeneous robot control, and fault management—into the robot platform, and organically connected the physical environment of the delivery site with hotel staff and robots.
Additionally, the company applied advanced real-time supply-and-demand forecasting algorithms and matching technologies based on a Transportation Management System (TMS). The platform sorts delivery orders and performs optimized robot dispatching by factoring in supply-and-demand forecasts, each robot’s characteristics, and estimated time of arrival (ETA), thereby implementing an automated “orchestration” system.
Along with technical support, the company also provided consulting services for robot service operations. It broke down work processes for various delivery scenarios and designed operational methods tailored to the client’s service priorities and business improvement requirements. Common tasks performed in robot services were standardized, while specific service requirements were designed to be customized according to the robot manufacturer, model, and the client’s operational environment. Kakao Mobility has maximized efficiency by applying the integrated mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platform technology capabilities it has accumulated over the years to its own robot service.
‘BRING’: A Robot Service Born with Versatility and Platform Capabilities
One of the key features of Kakao Mobility’s robot service “BRING,” provided on the BringOn robot service platform, is its versatility. It can be applied even to existing general buildings not originally designed with robot services in mind, allowing the company to expand its scope to various spaces and accelerate commercialization. It has been validated at locations such as the ‘Nudit Seoul Forest’ mixed-use cultural space in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, and the ‘Restri Resom’ resort in Jecheon, and is expanding its reach into residential spaces by signing business agreements to launch pilot projects in large, newly constructed apartment complexes.
In particular, as the company has maintained ongoing collaborations with leading domestic robotics firms—including Robotis, LG Electronics, and Bear Robotics—it plans to work with them to establish industry standards for expanding the robotics ecosystem and create successful use cases across diverse environments such as hospitals, residential spaces, offices, and logistics.
Ⅴ. BIO INDUSTRY TRENDS
1. SK Biopharm Begins First Prescriptions of Its In-house Developed Epilepsy Treatment in the Chinese Market
SK Biopharm has officially launched its in-house developed epilepsy treatment in the Chinese market, marking the start of its global business expansion.
SK Biopharm announced on the 26th that its innovative epilepsy drug, Cenobamate, has begun its first prescriptions at major hospitals across China, marking the start of full-scale commercialization. This launch comes approximately three months after receiving approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in December of last year.
Cenobamate, a new drug approved for the treatment of partial seizures in adults, is accelerating its initial market entry as prescriptions begin simultaneously at major hospitals across China. The company’s strategy is to rapidly expand its sales base in China through this initiative.
Development and commercialization in China are being handled by Ignis Therapeutics, a joint venture with a global investment firm. The two companies established a collaborative framework in 2021 to secure rights and navigate the approval process for key pipeline products, including Cenobamate, in China. Since then, they have jointly advanced the project across all aspects of clinical trials and regulatory approvals.
To strengthen local distribution, Cenobamate has partnered with a major Chinese pharmaceutical distributor to establish a nationwide supply chain to hospitals and pharmacies, laying the groundwork for product expansion. Industry observers are also noting the potential for an increase in the corporate value of the joint venture, Ignis, following this launch. SK Biopharm holds approximately 32.8% of the company’s shares, and analysts expect it to benefit from the future expansion of business in the Greater China region.
Eileen Long, CEO of Ignis Therapeutics, stated, “The first prescription of Cenobamate in China marks a significant milestone in our commercialization strategy and will serve as a crucial turning point in shifting the goal of epilepsy treatment in China from ‘seizure control’ to ‘seizure freedom,’” “We will do our utmost to ensure that this innovative new drug can swiftly meet the needs of clinical practice, leveraging our mature local supply chain.”
Lee Donghoon, CEO of SK Biopharm, remarked, “This launch and the initiation of prescriptions in China are the fruit of the long-term collaboration between SK Biopharm and Ignis Therapeutics, marking a significant milestone for the global expansion of Cenobamate.” He added, “Starting with China, we will strengthen cooperation with regional partners to accelerate our entry into Northeast Asian markets, including South Korea and Japan.”
2. Samsung Biologics CEO John Rim Re-elected for Third Term
- Continues three-pillar expansion strategy
- Samsung Bioepis Holdings appoints CFO Kim Hyoung Joon as new inside director… Strengthening responsible management
Samsung Biologics and Samsung Bioepis Holdings held their annual general meetings of shareholders in succession. As these were the first annual general meetingss held since last year’s corporate spin-off, they hold special significance. Samsung Biologics has confirmed the third term of the “John Rim regime” and is accelerating the execution of its existing strategies. Samsung Bioepis Holdings has appointed CFO Kim Hyoung Joon as an inside director to build a bridge between the board of directors and operational teams and strengthen responsible management.
On the 20th, Samsung Biologics and Samsung Epics Holdings held their respective “15th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders” and “1st Annual General Meeting of Shareholders” at 9 a.m. at the Songdo Convensia in Incheon. Following the completion of their corporate spin-off last November, Samsung Biologics has been reborn as a pure-play Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), while Samsung Epics Holdings was established as a biotech investment holding company. Samsung Epics Holdings has Samsung Bioepis and Epis NexLab as its subsidiaries.
At this shareholders’ meeting, Samsung Biologics reappointed John Rim as CEO. Mr. Rim was first appointed CEO in 2020 and has demonstrated tangible results every year since. With Mr. Rim successfully securing a third term, the company’s expansion strategy—centered on its three core pillars (production capacity, portfolio, and global hubs)—is expected to gain further momentum under his stable leadership.
The reappointment of Noh Kyun, Executive Vice President and Head of the EPCV Center at Samsung Biologics, was also approved. Executive Vice President Noh has led the expansion of production infrastructure and the strengthening of manufacturing competitiveness, and was first appointed as an inside director in 2023. He is expected to play a pivotal role in Samsung Biologics’ ongoing capacity expansion and the construction of next-generation pharmaceutical production facilities.
Although Samsung Biologics already possesses world-leading production capacity, the company plans to build Plants 6 and 8 in Songdo to achieve a "significantly superior" capacity of up to 1.325 million liters, thereby enhancing its competitiveness in securing orders. The market expects construction of Plant 6 to begin within this year. The company is also considering expanding the capacity of the 60,000-liter Rockville plant in the U.S., which it acquired from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) last year.
Samsung Bioepis Holdings drew significant attention by holding its first-ever shareholders’ meeting since its establishment. As an investment holding company, Samsung Bioepis Holdings plans to build a foundation for mid- to long-term growth and secure new growth engines through investments in its subsidiaries. Notably, at this shareholders’ meeting, CFO Kim was newly appointed as an inside director, further strengthening the company’s responsible management system by enhancing the professionalism and transparency of the board’s decision-making.
CFO Kim previously served as CFO of Samsung Bioepis and currently oversees all financial operations at Samsung Bioepis Holdings. He also serves as head of the support team at Epis NexLab. Moving forward, he plans to provide sound judgment in key management decision-making processes, drawing on his financial expertise and deep understanding of the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. This is expected to enhance efficiency in the process of formulating and executing investment strategies as a holding company.
CFO Kim stated, “I believe that now, 13 years after Samsung Bioepis was founded in 2012, we are at a point where momentum is building once again.” He added, “Since it takes about 10 years for the biotech industry to yield results, we are working hard with an eye toward future achievements. Please watch us grow alongside the domestic biotech industry.”
3. Celltrion to Invest 1.2 Trillion Won to Expand Songdo Plant… Boosting DS Production Capacity
Celltrion announced on the 24th that it will invest 1.2265 trillion won to expand its Songdo headquarters campus in Incheon by constructing Plants 4 and 5, with a total capacity of 180,000 liters. This investment will be implemented in phases from this year through 2030.
The new Plants 4 and 5 will incorporate automation systems and smart factory technologies. This will enable flexible production ranging from small-batch, high-variety manufacturing to large-scale mass production, thereby simultaneously securing a production base for next-generation biosimilars and new drugs currently under development.
The company will also strengthen its push into the U.S. market. Celltrion has decided to expand the capacity of its Branchburg, New Jersey plant from the current 66,000 liters to 75,000 liters. As a result, the plant’s total production capacity will increase to 141,000 liters. The strategy is to simultaneously meet U.S. demand and expand its CMO business through increased local production.
Once the domestic and international expansions are complete, Celltrion’s active drug substance(DS) production capacity will increase from the current 316,000L to 571,000L. The company expects this will enable it to achieve 100% in-house DS production and significantly enhance its cost competitiveness.
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Korean Industrial Insight No.25 of AI, Semiconductors, Batteries, Electric vehicles, Robot, and Bio in chinese
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