LG CNS, an information technology affiliate of South Korea’s LG Electronics, plans to open a research and development center in Silicon Valley.

The new center will focus on next-generation core technologies, including AI and a robot foundation model, according to the company.

This will be LG Group’s second R&D center in Silicon Valley, following a center already operated by LG Electronics.

LG CNS has been expanding its AI capabilities through partnerships with global tech companies, including Canada’s Cohere Inc.

🔗 Source: Yonhap

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ LG Group’s decade-long commitment to Silicon Valley innovation is deepening

This new R&D center represents the continuation of LG Group’s sustained Silicon Valley strategy that began over a decade ago.

LG Electronics first acquired webOS from HP in 2013, specifically to enhance its Smart TV capabilities, and that acquisition included establishing the webOS team at LG’s Silicon Valley Lab 2.

The acquisition brought LG not just the technology but also engineering talent in Sunnyvale and San Francisco, demonstrating an early commitment to building local technical capabilities 2.

Now LG CNS is establishing the group’s second Silicon Valley R&D center, focusing on AI and robotics foundation models 1.

This shows LG Group views Silicon Valley not as a one-time investment opportunity, but as a critical long-term hub for accessing cutting-edge technology and talent.

The decade-spanning commitment suggests LG recognizes that breakthrough innovations in consumer electronics increasingly require sustained presence in the world’s leading tech ecosystem.

2️⃣ The timing reflects intensifying competition for AI talent and partnerships

LG CNS’s move comes as they’re simultaneously investing in AI startups and Silicon Valley remains the dominant AI hub globally.

The company recently partnered with Skild AI, a U.S.-based robotics startup, including participation in their Series B funding round in June 2025 3.

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