Automation is on the rise.
South Korea has become a global leader in workforce automation, with over 10% of its employees replaced by robots, according to the World Robotics 2024 survey conducted by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). The country boasts the highest robot density globally, with 1,012 robots per 10,000 workers, driven by an annual growth rate of 5% since 2018. This highlights South Korea’s continued commitment to integrating advanced robotics into its industries.
Globally, Singapore ranks second in robot density, with 770 robots per 10,000 workers. China has emerged as a significant player, overtaking Germany and Japan to secure third place with 470 robots per 10,000 employees. Germany and Japan follow in fourth and fifth place, with densities of 429 and 419 robots per 10,000 workers, respectively, showing the competitive landscape of robotic adoption in manufacturing and other industries.
The United States ranks 10th globally, with 295 robots per 10,000 workers, while the European Union has an average density of 219 robots, reflecting a 5.2% annual increase. Among European countries, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, and Slovenia lead in robotic adoption, with all four nations featuring in the global top ten. This demonstrates Europe’s steady progress in embracing automation technologies.
Asia is the most dynamic region for robotics, with a density of 182 robots per 10,000 manufacturing employees, reflecting a 7.6% increase. South Korea, Singapore, China, and Japan dominate the rankings, highlighting the region’s rapid advancements in integrating automation across industries. Meanwhile, North America’s robot density has risen to 197 robots per 10,000 workers, a 4.2% growth, showcasing gradual progress in the adoption of robotics.
Overall, the report underscores the growing reliance on robotics worldwide, with significant advancements across Asia, Europe, and North America. This trend is reshaping global industries, driven by increased efficiency and the demand for automation in manufacturing and beyond.
