Hyundai Motor Group to Invest $6.3 Billion in AI Data Centre and Robot Factory in South Korea
Hyundai Motor Group has just unveiled one of its most ambitious tech bets yet. On February 27, 2026, the South Korean giant signed a deal to invest about ₩9 trillion (around $6.3 billion) to build a massive AI data centre and robot factory on reclaimed land at Saemangeum. This isn’t just about new buildings. Hyundai plans to power the data hub with 50,000 GPUs, fuel robotics research, and scale automation like never before.
The move shows a bold push into artificial intelligence and robotics manufacturing. It also focuses on future tech infrastructure. This could change how South Korea competes globally. With clean energy and hydrogen, the project may create new jobs. It can boost technology and support regional growth.
Strategic Vision Behind Hyundai’s Saemangeum Investment
Hyundai Motor Group’s plan to invest 9 trillion won (about $6.26 billion) marks a clear shift from a car‑focused company to a broader technology and AI leader. This initiative aims to build a physical AI ecosystem that blends artificial intelligence, robotics, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing on a national scale. The investment was announced on February 27, 2026, in a formal ceremony attended by South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung in Gunsan, North Jeolla Province.
Saemangeum’s location, reclaimed land on Korea’s west coast, offers vast space and ready infrastructure for future generations of technology. The project fits Hyundai’s long‑term strategy to diversify beyond vehicles into AI data processing, robotic systems, and hydrogen infrastructure. The vision aligns with government goals to disperse innovation hubs beyond Seoul and stimulate balanced regional growth.
This pivot in strategy reflects Hyundai’s response to global trends in automation, clean energy, and artificial intelligence, positioning the company to better compete in future industries while transforming the economic landscape of southwestern Korea.
Investment Breakdown & Infrastructure Plans
What Will Hyundai Build at Saemangeum?
Hyundai’s investment plan has several major components, each tied to future‑focused technology. First, 5.8 trillion won will go toward constructing a large‑scale AI data centre. This facility will use 50,000 high‑performance GPUs to power AI models that support everything from smart robots to autonomous driving systems.
Next, 400 billion won has been set aside for a robot manufacturing plant and parts cluster. This factory will produce industrial and logistics robots, including wearable robotic systems, and help develop a robust supply chain for components.
Beyond AI and robotics, Hyundai will invest 1 trillion won in a 200 MW water electrolysis plant to produce green hydrogen. Renewable hydrogen will power future mobility and industrial systems. Another 1.3 trillion won will build solar power infrastructure to supply electricity to the entire hub.
Together, these facilities form an integrated AI, robotics, and clean energy hub designed to support industrial innovation and reduce carbon emissions.
When Will Construction Start?
Construction is planned in phases. The AI data centre and solar generation facilities are scheduled to begin in 2027, with completion expected by 2029. The water electrolysis plant will also start in 2027 and expand in stages after its first phase finishes in 2029.
The robot manufacturing plant and parts cluster will break ground in 2028 and aim to be fully operational by 2029. These timelines reflect Hyundai’s emphasis on fast execution and early economic impact.
Economic, Job & Regional Impact
How Many Jobs Will the Project Create?
Hyundai expects this investment to generate around 71,000 jobs across the region. This includes direct roles within the new facilities and indirect jobs in supporting industries and services. The project could spark further growth in related sectors like robotics parts, software services, and clean energy infrastructure.
What Is the Regional Impact?
The Saemangeum investment is more than a business initiative; it is part of a broader push to balance economic development outside Seoul. Government leaders have pledged regulatory support to ensure the project attracts global talent and enhances the local economy. The hub may transform North Jeolla Province into a future‑focused industrial centre.
Broader Industry and Competitive Landscape
Hyundai’s Saemangeum investment also fits into the larger trend of global powers racing to secure AI and robotics leadership. Countries and corporations are pouring resources into data infrastructure, machine learning, and automation.
Hyundai’s plan responds to this shift by building capacity for physical AI systems, AI integrated into real‑world robotics and autonomous platforms. An AI stock analysis tool and expert forecasts show that companies tied to AI infrastructure often see heightened investor attention, reflecting market confidence in these technologies.
The investment also aligns with Hyundai’s previous strategic moves, such as its Nvidia partnership for 50,000 AI chips and robotics showcases at CES 2026. While Hyundai’s Boston Dynamics robots may be produced elsewhere, the Saemangeum hub strengthens the group’s overall robotics ecosystem.
Final Words
Hyundai’s $6.3 billion Saemangeum initiative is a bold step into the future of AI, robotics, and clean energy. By pairing advanced computation with manufacturing and sustainable power, the group aims to reshape South Korea’s tech landscape while creating jobs and balanced regional growth. This project sets a new benchmark in industrial innovation and signals Hyundai’s commitment to leading in physical AI and next‑generation technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
On February 27, 2026, Hyundai announced it would build a large AI data centre and robot factory in Saemangeum. It will focus on AI, robotics, and clean energy systems.
Hyundai plans to invest about ₩9 trillion (around $6.3 billion). Most funds go to the AI data centre, robot manufacturing, and clean energy infrastructure in Saemangeum.
The project is expected to create around 71,000 jobs. It will include direct roles in the new facilities and indirect jobs in related industries across North Jeolla Province.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.