LG Electronics said Monday it will hire 1,100 new employees for the first half of this year, up 83 percent from the number recruited during the same period last year.

The world’s No. 3 handset maker said that 80 percent of its newly hired workforce in four different business units will be involved in research and development activities.

The company will also employ more software developers so that the company can launch a stronger line-up of smart devices, including smartphones and smart televisions as well as smart home appliances, said company officials.

A number of them will take part in nurturing future growth engines like solar projects, light-emitting diodes and water-related projects, they added.

Those who are interested can submit their applications through the company’s website (www.lge.co.kr) from March 2-10.

(sharon@heraldcorp.com)