Head of Core R&D Lab

HMGICS is Hyundai Motor Group’s first overseas manufacturing-innovation hub, developing Software-Defined Factory (SDF) technologies and validating them through real production to support global plant deployment. HMGICS drives two major areas:

1. Digital Transformation (DX) of the automotive/module/parts manufacturing value chain—identifying and developing DX use cases that deliver cost reduction, quality improvement, and productivity gains, and building systematic frameworks and solutions for effective utilization of manufacturing data.
2. Development of advanced Robotics/AI core technologies—creating high-complexity technologies applicable to future DX use cases and high-level production automation. These technologies are validated through lab environments and HMGICS production facilities, then transferred to HQ to support the development of mass-production applications.

The Core R&D Lab leads the second area by identifying automation needs from global plants, planning and developing high-impact robotics/AI core technologies (software, algorithms, mechanisms), and collaborating with Singapore universities, research institutes, and HQ to verify manufacturability and support global mass-production applications.

[Planning]

1. Define core Robotics/AI technologies needed for new automation or upgrades (performance improvement, cost reduction) across global plants, and lead overall R&D project planning in close collaboration with HQ manufacturing and production teams.

[Execution]

1. In-house Development: Lead and coordinate core technology development in Vision AI (quality inspection), Manipulation (parts/material pick-and-place), Mobile Robotics (SLAM, core software internalization, new form-factor prototyping, next-generation control), and other new R&D projects (planned independently). Oversee development direction, investment, progress, and deliverables across project teams.
2. Corporate Lab: As Co-Director of the joint Corporate Lab, oversee multi-party R&D programs across NTU, A*STAR, and HMGICS. Lead annual development targets, validate manufacturability with HQ teams (e.g., CL Project TFT), and drive collaboration for application in global plants.
3. Group Affiliates Collaboration: Identify manufacturing automation needs within HMG vehicle module and logistics affiliates, and plan and co-develop related application projects utilizing internalized core technologies.
4. Core Technology R&D Partnerships: Lead core-technology R&D partnerships with Singapore academia, research institutes, and global tech companies to achieve effective development outcomes.

[Collaboration]

1. Maintain active communication and collaboration networks with HQ units (Manufacturing Solutions Division, Production) and group affiliates to identify new initiatives and drive application of developed technologies.
2. Maintain alignment with HQ’s manufacturing innovation strategy to prevent duplicated development and ensure clear value contribution to the parent organization.
3. Ensure in-house and Corporate Lab development goals remain up-to-date with HQ-led programs through continuous monitoring and timely updates.
4. Develop core technologies applicable to global plants, requiring regular technical exchange and communication with HQ units. Projects should aim for global deployment beyond HMGICS-specific applications.
5. Monitor emerging manufacturing technologies and key global tech players, and build global partnerships to support project development.