[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] The labor union at Kia is calling for full employment guarantees even as the company introduces robotics and AI-driven technologies into production lines.

According to industry sources on May 3, the Korea Metal Workers' Union Kia chapter recently finalized its 2026 collective bargaining demands, emphasizing “securing future jobs” as a core objective in response to the rise of physical AI and humanoid robotics.

The union is seeking to include a clause requiring the company to guarantee total employment when introducing new technologies, machinery, or projects. The move is widely seen as a response to the growing adoption of robotics—such as Hyundai Motor Group’s humanoid robot “Atlas”—and concerns that automation could reduce domestic jobs.

The union also urged Kia to localize production of key electric vehicle components, including batteries, motors, and reducers, warning that increased output at overseas plants could lead to job losses in Korea.

In addition, it demanded greater labor involvement in corporate decision-making, including requiring union agreement for board-level decisions on domestic and overseas investments, and prior notification of overseas expansion plans.

On wages, the union proposed a base salary increase of KRW 149,600 (excluding seniority-based raises) and a performance bonus equivalent to 30% of last year’s operating profit.

The demands highlight rising tensions between labor and management as the auto industry accelerates its transition toward AI, robotics, and electrification.

 

 

 

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