Coupang Invests $84M in Global AI Startups, Partners with Contoro Robotics

Apr 16, 2026
Coupang announced $84 million in investments in AI-focused startups and a collaboration with Texas-based Contoro Robotics to bring autonomous robots to its logistics operations in Korea and beyond.

Coupang has invested $84 million in AI technology startups globally since 2023, according to Tech in Asia. The company said the investments are part of its strategy to advance AI and automation in global commerce.

As part of this initiative, Coupang is collaborating with Texas-based Contoro Robotics to expand the startup’s AI-powered autonomous robots internationally. The companies are exploring a pilot program for Contoro’s robotic arms at Coupang’s logistics sites in South Korea. Contoro’s robots specialize in unloading boxes from containers and trailers and feature a human-in-the-loop system that combines AI with remote human control.

Coupang’s recent investments include contributions to the SBVA Alpha Korea Fund, Korean robotics firm CMES, U.S.-based Tempo, and a 75 billion won ($51 million) commitment to the SBVA Korea Sovereign AI Fund. The company said these efforts aim to support AI innovation and strengthen technology collaboration between the U.S. and Korea.

We hope you enjoyed this article

Consider subscribing to one of our newsletters like Enterprise AI Brief, AI Funding Brief or Daily AI Brief.

Also, consider following us on social media:

Enterprise AI AI Funding News AI Brief AI Brief (X)
Free newsletter

AI Funding Brief

AI Token Webinar

Industry analysis

2025 Global Business Services Agenda: Gen AI Takes Center Stage

The Hackett Group

This industry analysis by The Hackett Group explores the transformative impact of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) on global business services (GBS) in 2025. The study highlights the shift from exploration to acceleration of Gen AI initiatives, with 89% of executives advancing these projects to improve customer satisfaction, innovate products, and reduce costs. The report also discusses the challenges and strategies for successful Gen AI adoption, emphasizing the need for a technology-enabled operating model and the importance of reskilling the workforce.

Read more

You may also like

Free, six days a week

Daily AI Brief: the AI news that matters, in your inbox.