Humanoid robots advance in manufacturing and logistics sectors

The industrial landscape is undergoing a transformation driven by the emergence of humanoid robots powered by Physical AI. Unlike traditional industrial robots that rely on manual programming, humanoid robots utilize Vision Language Action (VLA) models to learn tasks through visual observation and reinforcement learning. This allows for rapid process reconfiguration via software updates.

Major global players are already integrating these technologies. Figure AI’s Figure 02 has supported production at BMW plants with 99% precision, while Tesla plans to deploy 1,000 Optimus robots to its Fremont plant. Hyundai Motor Group intends to deploy Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robots at its Georgia plant starting in 2028. In the logistics sector, Rainbow Robotics has piloted its RB-Y1 robot at Coupang centers.

In South Korea, Lotte Global Logistics has been selected for a national R&D project to develop domestic Physical AI models for logistics. Running through 2031, the project aims to reduce dependence on foreign technology by developing humanoid robots capable of autonomous, continuous processes—from order verification to packaging. Lotte will use its logistics centers in Jincheon, Yangsan, and Icheon as testbeds.

Experts suggest that between 2026 and 2028, humanoid robots will serve as essential supplements to address labor shortages rather than immediate replacements for human workers. However, by the 2030s, widespread adoption in low-skill, repetitive sectors like logistics and assembly is expected to significantly alter labor structures.