South Korea Develops Physical AI Robots

South Korean AI startup RLWRLD is leading efforts to develop AI brains for robots by creating an extensive library of human expertise. This involves capturing the motions of skilled workers from various industries, including Lotte Hotels & Resorts staff folding napkins, SK Group logistics workers handling goods, and Lawson employees organizing food displays. The goal is to build an AI software layer for humanoids that can perform complex physical tasks in factories and homes, with industrial deployment expected around 2028. South Korea is positioning itself as an AI powerhouse, with the government investing $33 million in a project to capture 'master technicians' skills. Major companies like Hyundai Motor Company and Samsung Electronics plan to integrate humanoids and AI-driven factories into their operations by 2028 and 2030, respectively. While this push is seen as a way to boost productivity and address a shrinking workforce, labor groups like the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions are concerned about potential job losses and the hollowing out of the skilled workforce.