From humanoids that dance to wearable robots that make heavy lifting easy, an event showcasing the latest domestic robot technology in one place is set to open.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government said on the 30th that it will hold the 2026 Seoul AI Robot Show from Oct. 6 to 8 at COEX in Seoul's Gangnam District, under the theme "Robots in Everyday Life, Walking Alongside Us." A total of 51 companies will take part, including large and mid-sized firms such as Hyundai Motor and Kia's Robotics Lab, LG CNS and Doosan Robotics, along with innovative physical AI companies.
Visitors will be able to see six of Korea's leading humanoid robot models up close. The humanoids will stage a performance combining K-pop with traditional Korean culture, and sports programs including robot tennis, soccer and boxing will also be held. A "robot parade" bringing various robots together will take place daily at noon.
Programs allowing citizens to experience robot technology firsthand are also planned. Attendees can try out wearable robots as well as robotic arms that make coffee and robot cameras that take photos. In a space recreating disaster and public safety scenarios, a "Robot Rescue Challenge" will feature robots carrying out search and rescue missions.
The event will also include a Physical AI Forum to discuss growth prospects for the robot industry and one-on-one investment meetups connecting robot companies with investors. The city government said it aims to give citizens a chance to experience robot technology while supporting companies in technology validation and attracting investment.
"We will support the growth of innovative companies with strong technology and expand robot services that citizens can feel in their daily lives, so that Seoul can emerge as a global robot-friendly city," said Kim Hyun-woo, head of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's economic affairs office.
