Korea’s POSCO invests in US industrial humanoid robot firm Persona AI

South Korean steel giant POSCO, through its tech subsidiary POSCO DX, is investing a total of $3 million in US-based industrial humanoid robot startup Persona AI, which is led by former NASA and Figure AI engineers. POSCO DX aims to leverage this investment to develop humanoid robots capable of replacing high-risk manual labor at its industrial sites, integrating the group’s AI technology with robotics to create “Physical AI”—machines with built-in intelligence designed to operate safely and effectively in real-world industrial environments. This initiative aligns with POSCO’s broader goal to enhance workplace safety and reduce industrial accidents through automation. Persona AI specializes in building humanoid robots tailored for heavy-duty industries such as shipbuilding, energy, mining, and construction. Unlike general-purpose robotics firms, Persona AI focuses on environments requiring human-like dexterity and adaptability, equipping its robots with advanced touch sensors and AI algorithms that enable precise, autonomous task execution. These robots are designed to work collaboratively with human supervisors and coworkers, addressing labor shortages