On July 28, 2025, Doosan Robotics took a bold step forward in its journey. The company decided to broaden its vision—moving from building mainly hardware to becoming a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and software-driven robotic solutions. This was made possible through its acquisition of an 89.59% stake in ONExia, a respected robotics system integrator based in the United States. The deal was valued at $25.9 million (35.6 billion KRW) and formalized with both a stock purchase and investment in ONExia’s growth.
Who is ONExia?
Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Pennsylvania, ONExia has spent decades refining automation systems for industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and packaging. Their expertise runs deep, with a particular strength in collaborative robotic systems for end-of-line tasks like stacking pallets, assembling boxes, and packaging products. ONExia’s efforts have led to steady growth, with an average of 30% more sales each year in recent times.
Over the last 25 years, ONExia has gathered valuable automation data and built powerful engineering capabilities. This wealth of hands-on industry experience makes ONExia an ideal partner to enhance Doosan Robotics’ AI-focused efforts.
A New Chapter for Doosan Robotics
This acquisition marks a turning point for Doosan Robotics. The company is now looking beyond its roots in machinery and hardware. It is embracing a future where robotics are powered by smart software and advanced AI. This aligns with the rise of the “Physical AI” age—a time when machines do more than just repeat tasks, but adapt, learn, and work intelligently alongside people.
Strengthening Innovation
Doosan Robotics is not stopping at this major acquisition. The company is increasing efforts to innovate by recruiting talented specialists and refocusing its Research & Development (R&D) around AI, software solutions, and the future possibilities of humanoid robotics. A new R&D Innovation Center is also in the works, set to launch in the third quarter of 2025, to support these ambitions.
Leadership and Vision
CEO Kevin (Minpyo) Kim has called this acquisition a milestone for Doosan Robotics. He believes that combining ONExia’s strengths in system integration with Doosan’s leading robotics technology equips the company to create next-generation AI-powered robots. This step also expands Doosan’s reach in the global marketplace, allowing it to answer the growing demand for intelligent automation and advanced robotic solutions.
What This Means for the Future
With this strategic move, Doosan Robotics achieves several important goals:
- Extending its expertise from hardware manufacturing into AI and advanced software solutions.
- Drawing from ONExia’s trusted experience in automation and its decades of industry data.
- Building a stronger presence in vital North American industries, such as manufacturing and logistics.
- Fueling innovation through larger investments in R&D and the creation of a dedicated Innovation Center.
- Positioning itself as a leader in the intelligent robotics market — ready for the demands of an AI-powered world.
These actions reflect broader changes in the robotics industry. Across the world, companies seek more than just machines; they look for systems that use AI to make work safer, faster, and more flexible. As Doosan Robotics grows with ONExia’s insights and expertise, it stands ready to deliver intelligent, adaptable robots for a new era in industry—a future shaped by innovation, technology, and close partnerships.
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