Daijiworld Media Network- Seoul

Seoul, Mar 5: South Korea’s Fair-Trade Commission (FTC) on Wednesday approved Samsung Electronics' acquisition of local robotics startup Rainbow Robotics, paving the way for the tech giant’s expansion into advanced robotics.

The approval comes two months after Samsung Electronics submitted the acquisition proposal for regulatory review. The FTC determined that the deal posed no significant risk of creating a monopoly, Yonhap news agency reported.

Samsung Electronics, which currently holds a 35 percent stake in Rainbow Robotics, had invested 86.8 billion won (US$59 million) in the company in 2023. The acquisition aligns with Samsung’s long-term strategy to develop cutting-edge robotics, including humanoid robots.

Founded in 2011 by researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), Rainbow Robotics made history by developing South Korea’s first two-legged walking robot, Hubo.

Samsung aims to integrate its artificial intelligence (AI) and software expertise with Rainbow Robotics' technological capabilities to accelerate the development of intelligent humanoid robots.

Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics' Vice Chairman and co-CEO, Han Jong-hee, in January, expressed confidence in the company’s future growth, attributing it to AI-driven innovations.

“I believe AI will serve as a momentum for recovery,” he said, emphasizing that AI-powered solutions will play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future.

Samsung’s SmartThings platform remains central to this vision, ensuring seamless connectivity across its diverse range of products—including smartphones, home appliances, TVs, and electronic components—creating an integrated smart ecosystem.

"We are the only company with such a vast product portfolio. Connectivity is key," Han stated, underlining Samsung's commitment to AI-led transformation.