A preliminary review of artificial intelligence adoption in human resource management: evidence from Asia

Artificial intelligence (AI) integration into human resource management (HRM) has gained considerable momentum in Asia, driven by the region's rapid digital transformation and dynamic economic growth. Despite increasing scholarly attention, existing literature often adopts fragmented perspectives on AI applications across different HRM functions. This review paper aims to identify trends, challenges, and outcomes of AI adoption in HRM functions, considering the socio-cultural and economic diversity of Asian countries. It investigates the adoption of AI, its application, and its implications across key HRM functions, including recruitment, training and development, performance appraisal, and employee engagement. This paper adopts a systematic review methodology, synthesising peer-reviewed indexed journal articles published from 2020 to 2024. Thematic analysis reveals that AI technologies have enhanced operational efficiency, decision-making processes, and personalised employee experiences. However, critical concerns persist regarding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and employee acceptance. Additionally, the uneven pace of AI adoption across industries and countries highlights the influence of regulatory frameworks, organisational readiness, and technological infrastructure. This review contributes to the growing body of knowledge by offering a region-specific perspective on AI integration in HRM, addressing the unique complexities of the Asian context. The findings offer practical insights for HR practitioners and policymakers to navigate AI implementation while fostering ethical and inclusive AI adoption. The paper also identifies key research gaps, calling for future research to examine the long-term impacts of AI-driven HRM practices and their implications for workforce dynamics in the evolving digital landscape.