Hyundai Motor Group announced on Monday that it’ll begin deploying human-like robots in its factories, beginning in 2028. This program strives for a productivity and efficiency that permeates its manufacturing processes. The chief exec of the firm, José Muñoz, made clear that they are deploying these robots in a step toward something much bigger. By 2025, they plan to invest more than $12 billion in the United States. This historic investment aligns with the U.S. government’s growing focus and much of the recent work started under former President Donald Trump on increasing domestic manufacturing.
Hyundai also made headlines during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas when they introduced Atlas, a humanoid robot created by Boston Dynamics. Designed for general industrial application, Atlas is able to operate in concert with humans while autonomously operating heavy equipment. This innovative technological advancement offers a glimpse into Hyundai’s dedication to innovation and the future of manufacturing.
Hyundai’s President, Lee Jae Myung, emphasized that the integration of robots like Atlas is part of a larger vision for the company. Over time, as Atlas robots learn and adapt to new environments, they will begin performing more complex tasks in factories. They will complement human workers and enhance community operational effectiveness.
The announcement comes on the heels of a troubling incident in September 2025, when U.S. immigration officers raided a Hyundai Motor Group plant, detaining hundreds of workers, including at least 300 South Korean citizens. The images of workers being shackled sparked outrage in South Korea and raised concerns about foreign investment in the United States. Thankfully, a deal struck between Washington and Seoul resulted in the release of the arrested workers later that month.
Muñoz weighed in, arguing that these incidents could deter foreign investment in the U.S. He stressed the importance of keeping a business-friendly climate to attract companies looking to move or grow their operations. At the same time, Hyundai is escalating an already intensive automobile production in the United States. They are spending big to develop autonomous driving technology and artificial intelligence (AI) while creating humanoid robots.
This push for automation is indicative of a bigger trend. Industry leaders such as Elon Musk are pouring billions into humanoid technology. Tesla’s new Optimus robot is another sign that dramatic shifts to bring automation into the manufacturing process are just beginning.