Lee Jae-yong, chairman of Samsung Electronics, visited the research and development (R&D) hub for robotics, a key future growth engine. This move is interpreted as part of his efforts to closely manage the company's robotics business, a critical future revenue source.
On the 27th, Chairman Lee visited the 'Robot eXperience (RX) Business Promotion Office' located at the Seoul R&D Campus in Umyeon-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul. During the visit, he reviewed the progress of robots under development and the status of technology localization.
It is reported that he also inspected the preparation status of humanoid robot technologies slated for unveiling at 'CES 2027' in January next year.
The RX Business Promotion Office was established in July to consolidate Samsung's robotics R&D capabilities and technological competitiveness. It serves as a 'robot control tower' responsible for core technology development, mid-to-long-term business strategy formulation, and commercialization. To enhance decision-making speed, the office operates under a direct reporting system to the CEO, with President Noh Tae-moon (Head of DX Division) serving as its head.
This visit marks the first time Chairman Lee has visited the RX Business Promotion Office since its establishment, underscoring the significance of the robotics business. It is analyzed as an intention to emphasize the importance of the sector and encourage technological advancements.
Samsung Electronics has identified robotics as a new growth driver. The company plans to deploy robots in semiconductor, smartphone, and home appliance factories to maximize productivity. To this end, it has set a goal to convert all domestic and international factories into 'AI Autonomous Factories' by 2030.
Additionally, Samsung intends to sell verified robot technologies to external clients. As the adoption of robots across industries is expected to surge, driving rapid growth in physical AI, the company aims to expand its robotics market presence in stages.
With Chairman Lee's visit, Samsung's robotics business is expected to gain momentum. The acquisition of core technologies and performance verification for next-generation humanoid commercialization are anticipated to accelerate.
Synergy creation among group affiliates is also set to begin in earnest. The goal is to introduce diverse robots by integrating technologies such as Samsung SDI's all-solid-state batteries for humanoids, Samsung Electro-Mechanics' cameras and sensors, Samsung Electronics' Device Solutions (DS) Division AI semiconductors, and Samsung Display's OLED panel technologies.
There is also attention on whether Samsung will pursue mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or investments to advance robotics technology. Discussions include investing in overseas companies with expertise in robotic hands, locomotion, and full-body control. To overcome challenges in precision manipulation and control—key hurdles for humanoid commercialization—collaboration with global firms possessing foundational technologies is essential.
