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South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market is worth USD 7.4 Bn, with high robot density and growth in industrial and healthcare sectors, supported by policies like Korean New Deal.

Region:Asia

Author(s):Geetanshi

Product Code:KRAB5136

Pages:88

Published On:October 2025

About the Report

Base Year 2024

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Overview

  • The South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market is valued at USD 7.4 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, increased automation across various industries, and a strong focus on enhancing productivity and efficiency. The integration of AI technologies into robotics has led to innovative solutions that cater to diverse applications, further propelling market expansion.
  • Key players in this market include Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, which dominate due to their robust industrial infrastructure, technological advancements, and significant investments in research and development. These cities are home to major corporations and startups that are at the forefront of AI and robotics innovation, fostering a competitive environment that attracts talent and investment. South Korea has achieved the highest robot density globally, with approximately 1,000 industrial robots per 10,000 manufacturing employees, particularly driven by strong automotive and electronics manufacturing sectors.
  • The South Korean government has implemented comprehensive robotics development policies through the Korean New Deal and Digital New Deal initiatives, 2020, which include substantial funding for robotics research and development, establishing advanced safety and performance standards, and facilitating strategic collaboration between industry and academia to enhance the country's global competitiveness in robotics and automation. These policies specifically target smart factory implementation and Industry 4.0 transformation across manufacturing sectors.
South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Size

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types of robotics and automation solutions, including Industrial Robots, Service Robots, Collaborative Robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots, Humanoid Robots, Robotic Process Automation, and Others. Each sub-segment plays a crucial role in addressing specific industry needs and consumer demands, with industrial robots maintaining the strongest market position due to South Korea's manufacturing-intensive economy.

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market segmentation by Type.

The Industrial Robots segment is currently dominating the market due to the increasing demand for automation in manufacturing processes, particularly in the automotive and electronics sectors. These robots enhance productivity, reduce labor costs, and improve precision in production lines. The trend towards smart factories and Industry 4.0 initiatives further drives the adoption of industrial robots, making them a critical component of the automation landscape. Industrial robots accounted for nearly 70% of revenue in the commercial and industrial robot market, with over 45,000 units shipped.

By End-User:The market is segmented by end-user industries, including Manufacturing, Healthcare, Logistics and Warehousing, Agriculture, Retail, Defense, and Others. Each sector utilizes robotics and automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency and meet specific industry challenges, with manufacturing maintaining the largest market share due to South Korea's strong industrial base.

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market segmentation by End-User.

The Manufacturing sector is the leading end-user of robotics and automation technologies, driven by the need for increased efficiency and reduced operational costs. The automotive and electronics industries, in particular, are leveraging advanced robotics to streamline production processes and enhance product quality. The ongoing trend towards smart manufacturing and digital transformation is expected to further solidify the manufacturing sector's dominance in the robotics market. The healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth driven by South Korea's aging population and increasing demand for elder care robotics solutions.

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Competitive Landscape

The South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., LG Electronics Inc., Hyundai Robotics, Doosan Robotics, Hanwha Robotics, KT Corporation, SK Telecom Co., Ltd., Yaskawa Electric Corporation, ABB Ltd., Fanuc Corporation, KUKA AG, Omron Corporation, Boston Dynamics, Clearpath Robotics, Universal Robots A/S contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

1969

Suwon, South Korea

LG Electronics Inc.

1958

Seoul, South Korea

Hyundai Robotics

2017

Seongnam, South Korea

Doosan Robotics

2015

Seoul, South Korea

Hanwha Robotics

2018

Seoul, South Korea

Company

Establishment Year

Headquarters

Group Size (Large, Medium, or Small as per industry convention)

Revenue Growth Rate

Market Penetration Rate

Customer Retention Rate

Pricing Strategy (Premium, Competitive, Discounted)

Product Innovation Rate (New Product Launches)

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

  • Increasing Demand for Automation in Manufacturing:The South Korean manufacturing sector, which contributed approximatelyUSD 400 billionto the economy in future, is increasingly adopting automation technologies. This shift is driven by the need for efficiency and productivity, as manufacturers face pressure to reduce operational costs. In future, the demand for automated solutions is projected to rise by15%, reflecting a broader trend towards smart factories that leverage AI and robotics to enhance production capabilities.
  • Government Initiatives Supporting AI Development:The South Korean government has allocated overUSD 1.5 billionfor AI and robotics research and development in future. This funding aims to foster innovation and support startups in the AI sector. Additionally, initiatives like the "K-Startup Grand Challenge" are designed to attract global talent and investment, further solidifying South Korea's position as a leader in AI technology and robotics, which is expected to boost the market significantly.
  • Rising Labor Costs Driving Automation Adoption:With labor costs in South Korea reaching an average ofUSD 22 per hourin future, companies are increasingly turning to automation to maintain competitiveness. The rising costs are prompting businesses to invest in robotic solutions that can operate continuously without the need for breaks or benefits. This trend is expected to accelerate the adoption of AI-driven automation technologies across various sectors, including manufacturing and logistics.

Market Challenges

  • High Initial Investment Costs:The upfront costs associated with implementing AI and robotics solutions can be prohibitive, often exceedingUSD 500,000for small to medium-sized enterprises. This financial barrier limits access to advanced technologies, particularly for businesses with tighter budgets. As a result, many companies may delay or forgo investments in automation, hindering overall market growth and technological advancement in the sector.
  • Skills Gap in Workforce:The rapid advancement of AI and robotics technologies has created a significant skills gap in the South Korean workforce. Currently,over 60% of companies report difficulty in finding qualified personnelwith the necessary expertise in AI and robotics. This shortage is expected to persist, as educational institutions struggle to keep pace with industry demands, ultimately limiting the effective deployment of automation solutions across various sectors.

South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Future Outlook

The South Korean AI in robotics and automation market is poised for transformative growth, driven by technological advancements and increased investment in smart manufacturing. As industries embrace automation, the integration of AI with IoT will enhance operational efficiency and data analytics capabilities. Furthermore, the focus on sustainable practices will lead to the development of energy-efficient robotic solutions. These trends indicate a robust future for the market, with significant opportunities for innovation and expansion across various sectors.

Market Opportunities

  • Expansion in Healthcare Robotics:The healthcare sector in South Korea is increasingly adopting robotic solutions, with investments projected to reachUSD 300 millionin future. This growth is driven by the need for precision in surgeries and patient care, creating opportunities for companies specializing in medical robotics and AI-driven healthcare solutions.
  • Growth in Smart Manufacturing Solutions:The smart manufacturing market is expected to grow significantly, with an estimated value ofUSD 1 billionin future. This growth is fueled by the demand for automation technologies that enhance productivity and reduce waste, presenting opportunities for businesses to innovate and provide tailored solutions in this evolving landscape.

Scope of the Report

SegmentSub-Segments
By Type

Industrial Robots (e.g., Articulated, SCARA, Delta)

Service Robots (e.g., Domestic, Logistics, Healthcare)

Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)

Humanoid Robots

Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Others (e.g., Social, Educational Robots)

By End-User

Manufacturing (Automotive, Electronics, Heavy Machinery)

Healthcare (Surgical, Rehabilitation, Elder Care)

Logistics and Warehousing

Agriculture (Precision Farming, Harvesting)

Retail (Inventory Management, Customer Service)

Defense (Surveillance, Maintenance)

Others (Education, Hospitality)

By Application

Assembly Line Automation

Material Handling and Inventory Management

Quality Control and Inspection

Packaging and Palletizing

Inspection and Maintenance (Predictive, Preventive)

Others (Cleaning, Security)

By Component

Hardware (Actuators, Sensors, Controllers)

Software (AI, Machine Learning, IoT Integration)

Services (Installation, Maintenance, Training)

By Sales Channel

Direct Sales

Distributors

Online Sales

Others (Partnerships, Resellers)

By Distribution Mode

Offline Distribution

Online Distribution

By Price Range

Low-End (Basic Automation Solutions)

Mid-Range (Standard Industrial Robots)

High-End (Advanced AI-Powered Robots)

Key Target Audience

Investors and Venture Capitalist Firms

Government and Regulatory Bodies (e.g., Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy)

Manufacturers and Producers

Distributors and Retailers

Technology Providers

Industry Associations (e.g., Korea Robotics Society)

Financial Institutions

Automation Solution Providers

Players Mentioned in the Report:

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

LG Electronics Inc.

Hyundai Robotics

Doosan Robotics

Hanwha Robotics

KT Corporation

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

Yaskawa Electric Corporation

ABB Ltd.

Fanuc Corporation

KUKA AG

Omron Corporation

Boston Dynamics

Clearpath Robotics

Universal Robots A/S

Table of Contents

Market Assessment Phase

1. Executive Summary and Approach


2. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Overview

2.1 Key Insights and Strategic Recommendations

2.2 South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Overview

2.3 Definition and Scope

2.4 Evolution of Market Ecosystem

2.5 Timeline of Key Regulatory Milestones

2.6 Value Chain & Stakeholder Mapping

2.7 Business Cycle Analysis

2.8 Policy & Incentive Landscape


3. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Analysis

3.1 Growth Drivers

3.1.1 Increasing Demand for Automation in Manufacturing
3.1.2 Government Initiatives Supporting AI Development
3.1.3 Rising Labor Costs Driving Automation Adoption
3.1.4 Technological Advancements in AI and Robotics

3.2 Market Challenges

3.2.1 High Initial Investment Costs
3.2.2 Skills Gap in Workforce
3.2.3 Regulatory Compliance Issues
3.2.4 Rapid Technological Changes

3.3 Market Opportunities

3.3.1 Expansion in Healthcare Robotics
3.3.2 Growth in Smart Manufacturing Solutions
3.3.3 Increasing Use of AI in Logistics and Supply Chain
3.3.4 Development of Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

3.4 Market Trends

3.4.1 Integration of AI with IoT in Robotics
3.4.2 Focus on Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Solutions
3.4.3 Customization and Personalization in Robotics
3.4.4 Rise of Autonomous Systems in Various Sectors

3.5 Government Regulation

3.5.1 Standards for Safety in Robotics
3.5.2 Incentives for AI Research and Development
3.5.3 Data Privacy Regulations Affecting AI
3.5.4 Export Controls on Robotics Technology

4. SWOT Analysis


5. Stakeholder Analysis


6. Porter's Five Forces Analysis


7. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Market Size, 2019-2024

7.1 By Value

7.2 By Volume

7.3 By Average Selling Price


8. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Segmentation

8.1 By Type

8.1.1 Industrial Robots (e.g., Articulated, SCARA, Delta)
8.1.2 Service Robots (e.g., Domestic, Logistics, Healthcare)
8.1.3 Collaborative Robots (Cobots)
8.1.4 Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)
8.1.5 Humanoid Robots
8.1.6 Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
8.1.7 Others (e.g., Social, Educational Robots)

8.2 By End-User

8.2.1 Manufacturing (Automotive, Electronics, Heavy Machinery)
8.2.2 Healthcare (Surgical, Rehabilitation, Elder Care)
8.2.3 Logistics and Warehousing
8.2.4 Agriculture (Precision Farming, Harvesting)
8.2.5 Retail (Inventory Management, Customer Service)
8.2.6 Defense (Surveillance, Maintenance)
8.2.7 Others (Education, Hospitality)

8.3 By Application

8.3.1 Assembly Line Automation
8.3.2 Material Handling and Inventory Management
8.3.3 Quality Control and Inspection
8.3.4 Packaging and Palletizing
8.3.5 Inspection and Maintenance (Predictive, Preventive)
8.3.6 Others (Cleaning, Security)

8.4 By Component

8.4.1 Hardware (Actuators, Sensors, Controllers)
8.4.2 Software (AI, Machine Learning, IoT Integration)
8.4.3 Services (Installation, Maintenance, Training)

8.5 By Sales Channel

8.5.1 Direct Sales
8.5.2 Distributors
8.5.3 Online Sales
8.5.4 Others (Partnerships, Resellers)

8.6 By Distribution Mode

8.6.1 Offline Distribution
8.6.2 Online Distribution

8.7 By Price Range

8.7.1 Low-End (Basic Automation Solutions)
8.7.2 Mid-Range (Standard Industrial Robots)
8.7.3 High-End (Advanced AI-Powered Robots)

9. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Competitive Analysis

9.1 Market Share of Key Players

9.2 Cross Comparison of Key Players

9.2.1 Company Name
9.2.2 Group Size (Large, Medium, or Small as per industry convention)
9.2.3 Revenue Growth Rate
9.2.4 Market Penetration Rate
9.2.5 Customer Retention Rate
9.2.6 Pricing Strategy (Premium, Competitive, Discounted)
9.2.7 Product Innovation Rate (New Product Launches)
9.2.8 Operational Efficiency (Cost Savings, Productivity Gains)
9.2.9 Return on Investment (ROI) for Customers
9.2.10 Customer Satisfaction Score (Based on Surveys)

9.3 SWOT Analysis of Top Players

9.4 Pricing Analysis

9.5 Detailed Profile of Major Companies

9.5.1 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
9.5.2 LG Electronics Inc.
9.5.3 Hyundai Robotics
9.5.4 Doosan Robotics
9.5.5 Hanwha Robotics
9.5.6 KT Corporation
9.5.7 SK Telecom Co., Ltd.
9.5.8 Yaskawa Electric Corporation
9.5.9 ABB Ltd.
9.5.10 Fanuc Corporation
9.5.11 KUKA AG
9.5.12 Omron Corporation
9.5.13 Boston Dynamics
9.5.14 Clearpath Robotics
9.5.15 Universal Robots A/S

10. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market End-User Analysis

10.1 Procurement Behavior of Key Ministries

10.1.1 Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy
10.1.2 Ministry of Science and ICT
10.1.3 Ministry of Health and Welfare

10.2 Corporate Spend on Infrastructure & Energy

10.2.1 Investment in Automation Technologies
10.2.2 Budget Allocation for AI Research

10.3 Pain Point Analysis by End-User Category

10.3.1 Manufacturing Sector Challenges
10.3.2 Healthcare Sector Needs

10.4 User Readiness for Adoption

10.4.1 Training and Skill Development Needs
10.4.2 Infrastructure Readiness

10.5 Post-Deployment ROI and Use Case Expansion

10.5.1 Evaluation of ROI Metrics
10.5.2 Potential for Scaling Use Cases

11. South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market Future Size, 2025-2030

11.1 By Value

11.2 By Volume

11.3 By Average Selling Price


Go-To-Market Strategy Phase

1. Whitespace Analysis + Business Model Canvas

1.1 Market Gaps Identification

1.2 Business Model Development


2. Marketing and Positioning Recommendations

2.1 Branding Strategies

2.2 Product USPs


3. Distribution Plan

3.1 Urban Retail Strategies

3.2 Rural NGO Tie-Ups


4. Channel & Pricing Gaps4.1 Underserved Routes4.2 Pricing Bands Analysis5. Unmet Demand & Latent Needs5.1 Category Gaps5.2 Consumer Segments6. Customer Relationship6.1 Loyalty Programs6.2 After-Sales Service7. Value Proposition7.1 Sustainability Initiatives7.2 Integrated Supply Chains8. Key Activities8.1 Regulatory Compliance8.2 Branding Efforts8.3 Distribution Setup9. Entry Strategy Evaluation9.1 Domestic Market Entry Strategy9.1.1 Product Mix Considerations9.1.2 Pricing Band Strategy9.1.3 Packaging Approaches9.2 Export Entry Strategy9.2.1 Target Countries9.2.2 Compliance Roadmap10. Entry Mode Assessment10.1 Joint Ventures10.2 Greenfield Investments10.3 Mergers & Acquisitions10.4 Distributor Model11. Capital and Timeline Estimation11.1 Capital Requirements11.2 Timelines for Implementation12. Control vs Risk Trade-Off12.1 Ownership Considerations12.2 Partnerships Evaluation13. Profitability Outlook13.1 Breakeven Analysis13.2 Long-Term Sustainability14. Potential Partner List14.1 Distributors14.2 Joint Ventures14.3 Acquisition Targets15. Execution Roadmap15.1 Phased Plan for Market Entry15.1.1 Market Setup15.1.2 Market Entry15.1.3 Growth Acceleration15.1.4 Scale & Stabilize15.2 Key Activities and Milestones15.2.1 Milestone PlanningDisclaimerContact Us### Notes on Updates: - **Section 8** has been updated to include more specific types of robots and applications relevant to the South Korean market. - **Section 9.2** includes KPIs that are meaningful for comparing key players in the South Korean AI in Robotics & Automation market. - **Section 9.5** lists major companies involved in the South Korean AI in Robotics & Automation market, ensuring accurate company names and no garbled characters.


Research Methodology

ApproachModellingSample

Phase 1: Approach1

Desk Research

  • Analysis of government publications and reports on AI and robotics initiatives in South Korea
  • Review of industry white papers and market analysis reports from leading research firms
  • Examination of academic journals and conference proceedings related to AI applications in robotics

Primary Research

  • Interviews with industry experts and thought leaders in AI and robotics sectors
  • Surveys conducted with key stakeholders, including manufacturers and technology providers
  • Field visits to robotics and automation facilities to gather firsthand insights

Validation & Triangulation

  • Cross-validation of findings through multiple data sources, including trade associations and government agencies
  • Triangulation of qualitative insights from interviews with quantitative data from surveys
  • Sanity checks through expert panel reviews to ensure data accuracy and relevance

Phase 2: Market Size Estimation1

Top-down Assessment

  • Estimation of the overall market size based on national expenditure on AI and robotics technologies
  • Segmentation of the market by application areas such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics
  • Incorporation of government funding and support programs for AI and robotics development

Bottom-up Modeling

  • Collection of sales data from leading robotics manufacturers and AI solution providers
  • Estimation of market penetration rates for various AI technologies in robotics applications
  • Volume and pricing analysis based on product categories and service offerings

Forecasting & Scenario Analysis

  • Development of predictive models using historical growth rates and emerging trends in AI adoption
  • Scenario analysis based on potential regulatory changes and technological advancements
  • Creation of baseline, optimistic, and pessimistic forecasts through 2030

Phase 3: CATI Sample Composition1

Scope Item/SegmentSample SizeTarget Respondent Profiles
Manufacturing Automation Solutions60Production Managers, Automation Engineers
Healthcare Robotics Applications50Healthcare Administrators, Robotics Specialists
Logistics and Supply Chain Automation40Logistics Coordinators, Supply Chain Analysts
Consumer Robotics Market45Product Managers, Marketing Directors
AI Software Development for Robotics55Software Developers, AI Researchers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current value of the South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market?

The South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market is valued at approximately USD 7.4 billion, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and increased automation across various industries, particularly in manufacturing.

Which cities are key players in the South Korea AI in Robotics & Automation Market?

What are the main types of robotics in the South Korean market?

How does the South Korean government support AI and robotics development?

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