Hyundai Motor Deploys Robots at Seoul Headquarters in Push for Physical AI Leadership
SEOUL — Hyundai Motor Group announced Thursday the deployment of gardening, delivery, and security robots at its newly renovated headquarters in Seoul, marking a tangible step in its broader strategy to become a leader in physical artificial intelligence (AI). The move is designed to improve employee convenience and create a "robot-friendly" building, according to company statements reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The three robots deployed include DAL-e Gardener, DAL-e Delivery, and Spot. DAL-e Gardener assists landscaping managers by watering plants, using sensors and cameras capable of recognizing spaces in three dimensions. It is equipped with a robotic arm that offers vertical movement and six-axis rotation for precise watering. DAL-e Delivery transports beverages from a lobby cafe to pickup zones on each floor; employees can place orders through a mobile app, and the robot uses facial recognition to ensure accurate delivery, carrying up to 16 drinks at a time. Spot, a four-legged robot developed by Boston Dynamics—Hyundai's U.S. robotics affiliate—is equipped with an additional autonomous driving module and is tasked with patrolling the building.
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung, speaking at a meeting with reporters during the headquarters reopening event, emphasized the company's focus on balancing software and hardware in its robotics development. "We are moving forward with our robotics business through trial and error," Chung said, as quoted by Yonhap. "As it is important to maintain the right balance between software and hardware, and to integrate robotics with employees' emotions and culture, we are paying close attention to those aspects."
Chung's remarks come amid ongoing discussions about Atlas, Boston Dynamics' humanoid robot, which was unveiled at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. According to Yonhap, Hyundai's labor union has said it would oppose any plan to mass-produce Atlas and deploy it in factories, citing concerns about potential job displacement. Chung did not directly address the union's stance but said the deployment of robots at the headquarters aims to give employees an opportunity to understand the company's future vision and provide feedback before commercialization.
In addition to robotics, Chung addressed geopolitical risks, saying the war in the Middle East is "very concerning" for the company's business. He cited potential delays in a plant project in Saudi Arabia and decreased auto sales in the region. "We are building a plant in Saudi Arabia, and it appears the project may be delayed somewhat. Sales in the Middle East have also declined amid the conflict," Chung said, according to Yonhap.
The Saudi Arabia plant, which is expected to produce its first vehicle by the fourth quarter of 2026 with an annual capacity of 50,000 vehicles, may face setbacks due to regional instability. Yonhap's report did not specify the extent of the delay or the decline in sales.
The robot deployment and Chung's comments reflect Hyundai's dual focus on advancing robotics technology while navigating operational risks. The company has not disclosed further details about the commercial timeline for Atlas or the broader robotics lineup.
As of this report, the information is based on Yonhap News Agency's coverage. No other sources have independently confirmed the details, and the impact of the Middle East conflict on Hyundai's Saudi operations remains uncertain.