South Korea’s Robotics Revolution: A Vision for Industrial Innovation

MSS Centers Robotics Startups in National Policy

Robotics: The Future of Physical AI in Korea

Voices from the Field: Shaping Robotics Policy and Innovation

Bridging Robotics and Physical AI: Korea’s Next Industrial Leap

Translating Policy into Action: Robotics and Market Integration

Key Insights from Korea’s Robotics Startup Initiative

South Korea’s Robotics Revolution: A Blueprint for Industrial Innovation

South Korea is on the brink of a technological renaissance, redefining industrial innovation through the lens of robotics. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) has shifted the perspective on robots from mere factory tools to the pivotal engines of Physical AI, highlighting a strategic pivot that intertwines artificial intelligence with the very fabric of the nation’s manufacturing landscape. A recent policy roundtable in Daegu marks the beginning of a new era, shaping not just sectoral support, but a comprehensive framework for integrating AI-driven manufacturing with the dynamism of startups.

MSS Brings Robotics Startups to the Center of Korea’s Industrial Policy

On February 6, 2026, Minister Han Seong-sook led a pivotal policy roundtable at Daegu Techno Park, aimed at advancing Korea’s robotics sector and nurturing startups. The event witnessed participation from over fifty stakeholders, including robot manufacturers, system integration firms, and research institutions, fostering direct dialogue between policymakers and industry leaders.

Minister Han unveiled a multi-stage plan designed to transform robotics startups into industrial pillars, offering targeted support in areas such as startup creation, venture investment, research and development, and public demonstration projects. She emphasized, “Robots are the key instruments that bring AI into real-world operation. The robotics industry is poised to become Korea’s next growth engine as a manufacturing powerhouse. We will drive company-specific support that connects innovation to commercialization.”

Robotics Becomes Korea’s Testbed for Physical AI

The Daegu meeting follows the National Startup Era Strategy Conference held on January 30, which recognized robotics as a strategic sector for the future. The designation of Daegu as a Global Innovation Zone for AI Robots underscores its ambition to become a national pilot zone that marries AI with hardware and industrial automation.

This focus reflects the broader governmental agenda that began in 2025, promoting “Physical AI” as a cornerstone theme. At its core, Physical AI signifies the convergence of artificial intelligence and tangible systems—such as robots and industrial machines—that can perceive, act, and adapt in real-world environments. By centering robotics, the MSS aims to propel startups as leaders in this innovative shift that goes beyond software and into embodied AI systems.

Field Voices Shape Policy Direction in Robotics Startups and Physical AI

During the roundtable, participants raised crucial points on turning policy vision into actionable frameworks. Key recommendations included:

• Expanding venture capital channels to address funding gaps in early-stage robotics.
• Enhancing R&D grant programs focused on integrating AI and sensor fusion technologies.
• Creating early markets through public procurement and demand-driven demonstration projects.
• Establishing talent pipelines linking specialized education to startup recruitment.

Minister Han also highlighted the need to streamline government financing systems, ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently and without distortion.

From Robotics to Physical AI — Korea’s Next Leap

The MSS’s initiatives in robotics transcend traditional industrial policies, signaling a strategic convergence of AI, hardware, and manufacturing. By positioning robotics within the Physical AI framework, Korea is aligning startup innovation with large-scale industrial transformation—a model that is drawing global attention.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes partnerships with tech giants like NVIDIA and participation in AI-driven manufacturing programs led by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT).

In practical terms, Daegu’s initiative expands the visibility of robotics startups on a national level, a privilege once reserved for digital tech companies. Innovation hubs like Daegu Techno Park are emerging as vital testbeds for public-private collaborations in industrial AI.

Robotics as a Bridge Between Policy and Market Execution

The Daegu roundtable exemplifies how Korea is translating its vision of Physical AI into concrete actions. For startups, this means gaining access to policies that facilitate real commercialization pathways. For government entities, it demonstrates that success in AI-driven manufacturing hinges on collaboration, beyond just financial support.

Minister Han’s vision underscores a transformative shift—Korea’s next wave of innovation will be powered by machines capable of learning and adapting, thereby enhancing the human workforce rather than replacing it.

Key Takeaway on Korea’s Robotics Startup and Physical AI Policy

• Event: Robotics Venture and Startup Policy Roundtable, February 6, 2026, Daegu Techno Park.
• Led by: Minister Han Seong-sook, Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS).
• Core Theme: Positioning robotics as Korea’s next growth engine within the Physical AI era.
• Policy Actions: Tailored support for startups through funding, R&D, public verification, and procurement.
• Ecosystem Impact: Strengthens Korea’s industrial AI and robotics ecosystem; bridges national manufacturing strategy with startup innovation.
• Global Context: Aligns with Korea’s broader Physical AI agenda following the NVIDIA–Korea partnership and emerging industrial AI alliances.

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