KATHMANDU: Hyundai Motor workers in South Korea have voted to strike over concerns about the company’s plan to introduce humanoid robots and expand automation in factories.
The Hyundai branch of the Korean Metal Workers’ Union said 87 percent of nearly 40,000 members supported industrial action. The union is demanding a greater role in decisions related to AI and automation.
Hyundai plans to deploy Atlas humanoid robots, developed by its subsidiary Boston Dynamics, in its US factories. The company says the robots will handle repetitive and dangerous tasks.
The union has raised concerns over job security, saying advanced robots could affect employment. It has demanded that no new technology be introduced without an agreement between labor and management.
Workers are also seeking higher bonuses, an increase in retirement age from 60 to 65, and wage increases.
Hyundai is currently focusing on robotics and autonomous driving technology. The company plans to produce 30,000 Atlas robots annually and deploy them at its electric vehicle plant in Georgia by 2028.
The labor dispute comes as Hyundai faces pressure from higher costs, US tariffs, and slower electric vehicle demand. The company said it will continue discussions with the union.
