What is Hyundai's plan for humanoid robots?

Hyundai plans to deploy humanoid robots, starting with its U.S. plant in Georgia in 2028, and aims to manufacture 30,000 units annually by then.

Why is the Hyundai labor union concerned about robots?

The union fears that the deployment of humanoid robots will lead to significant job losses and "employment shocks" for workers.

Will Hyundai's robots be approved by the union?

The union has warned that no new technology robots will be deployed without a labor-management agreement.

Home / Business and Economy / Hyundai Union Warns of Robot Job Shocks

Hyundai Union Warns of Robot Job Shocks

22 Jan

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Summary

Union threatens to block robot deployment without agreement.
Hyundai plans U.S. plant robot deployment starting 2028.
Workers fear robots will reduce the workforce for profit.

Hyundai Motor's South Korean labor union has voiced strong opposition to the company's plans for deploying humanoid robots. The union issued an internal letter warning that "without labour-management agreement, not a single robot using new technology will be allowed to enter the workplace," citing anticipated "employment shocks."

Hyundai Motor Group, through its unit Boston Dynamics, unveiled the Atlas humanoid robot and aims to build a factory capable of producing 30,000 units annually by 2028. The company intends to deploy these robots at its U.S. plant in Georgia starting that year, with eventual expansion to all production sites.

The union accused Hyundai of prioritizing profits over its workforce by using robots to reduce labor. They also criticized the automaker's increased production in the United States, suggesting it negatively impacts domestic manufacturing and job security in Korea, particularly at factories in Georgia and two Korean plants.