When I read the news that Hyundai Motor Group plans to invest $50 billion in AI, robotics, and electric vehicles by 2025 (The Korea Herald, June 18, 2024), it was more than just a business headline—it was a vision for the future of industrial engineering in Korea and beyond. Hyundai’s strategy to transform its manufacturing with smart factories and real-time data systems is exactly the kind of innovation that drew me to this field. Their plan to integrate sensors, machine learning, and advanced robotics across all stages of production will not only redefine efficiency, but also set new standards for safety and adaptability.
In my school’s robotics club, I’ve seen how even small improvements in automation can make an enormous difference in workflow and output quality. Just recently, we automated a simple conveyor in our project, and it freed up time for our team to focus on problem-solving and creative work, rather than repetitive tasks. This hands-on experience made me realize that true innovation is not about replacing people, but about empowering them to contribute at a higher level.
What excites me most about Hyundai’s vision is its emphasis on collaboration—bringing together engineers, data scientists, and software developers. As we move into an era where complex challenges require multidisciplinary teams, I think the role of the industrial engineer will expand. We’ll need to understand both technology and people, acting as bridges between different worlds. However, as the article points out, this transition is not easy. Smaller manufacturers, especially in Korea’s provinces, often lack the resources to keep up. If we want the smart factory revolution to benefit everyone, there needs to be more support for education, training, and accessibility.
Ultimately, as I look toward my future studies in industrial engineering, I feel inspired by Hyundai’s boldness. I want to help build smarter factories—but even more, I want to help create a more inclusive and innovative industrial landscape for all.
Sunho Lee
- South Korea
- Male
- 12th Grade, Cornerstone Collegiate Academy
- Intended Major: Industrial Engineering
- Role: Managing Editor
- Introduction:
Curious about how technology can improve lives, I thrive on building systems that bring people together. As Managing Editor, I enjoy coordinating projects and helping our team grow. I hope to pursue industrial engineering and design solutions that bridge the gap between innovation and real-world needs.