LG’s Exaone Universe (Image courtesy of LG)
SEOUL, Nov. 25 (Korea Bizwire) — LG Group is ramping up its focus on the future by actively appointing talent in key emerging fields—artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and clean tech (collectively referred to as ‘ABC’).
The company is reshaping its business portfolio to enhance innovation and create new customer value, with a particular emphasis on research and development (R&D) and investment in these areas.
In its recent 2025 executive reshuffle on November 21, LG appointed 28 new executives in its ABC sectors, with 23% of the new hires specializing in AI, including three experts from the 1980s generation. This move aligns with the strategic vision of LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo, who has identified AI, bio, and clean tech as critical future growth areas.
To support this strategic pivot, LG is set to invest a massive 100 trillion Korean won in South Korea by 2028, allocating more than 50 trillion won to future growth and new business ventures.
Chairman Koo previously emphasized the importance of setting bold, innovative goals to ensure LG’s place at the forefront of global markets, particularly as economic uncertainty and competition intensify.
Since the establishment of its AI research institute in 2020, LG has been focusing on bolstering its AI capabilities. The institute has developed several iterations of its large language model, ExaOne, and has been applying generative AI technologies in industrial settings.
LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo (Image courtesy of LG)
LG’s subsidiaries, such as LG Electronics and LG Innotek, have already integrated AI into their operations, improving product demand forecasting and optimizing manufacturing processes.
Chairman Koo has also actively sought global AI partnerships, visiting Silicon Valley in June to explore AI semiconductor design and humanoid robot startups, while continuing to monitor advancements in AI technologies.
In addition to AI, LG is heavily investing in biotechnology and clean tech. LG Chem’s Life Sciences Division surpassed 1 trillion won in annual sales last year and has made significant strides in rare obesity drug exports. The company aims to expand its pipeline of global cancer treatments, bolstering its position as a leading global pharmaceutical player.
LG Chem is also focusing on clean tech, with investments in bio-materials, renewable energy industrial materials, battery recycling, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. LG’s energy solutions division has also established an independent entity dedicated to enhancing clean tech capabilities.
Further strengthening its future business initiatives, LG has been actively investing in global startups through LG Technology Ventures, which it established in Silicon Valley in 2018.
The company has invested $360 million in over 80 startups, with half of the funds directed toward the ABC sectors. LG’s ongoing investments in auto parts and battery businesses, which have taken decades of development, underscore its commitment to leading in future industries.
An LG representative stated, “Our core businesses in automotive parts and batteries are the result of over 20 years of research and investment. Looking ahead, we are preparing to lead new industries and shape the future.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
