KAIST Robots Roam Shipyards and Gangnam Streets

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Robot startups emerging from KAIST laboratories are now making their way beyond the confines of research facilities and into real-world applications across industrial settings and urban environments. These innovations highlight the growing influence of academic research in shaping the future of robotics.

Industrial Robots Transforming Shipbuilding

One notable example is DIDEN Robotics, a startup founded by Professor Park Hae-won from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at KAIST. The company has developed the ‘Seungwol (ζ˜‡θΆŠ) Robot,’ an advanced industrial robot capable of moving freely along steel walls and ceilings in shipyards. This robot, known as the ‘DIDEN 30,’ features four legs and is designed to operate in areas where human access is challenging. It combines magnetic feet with autonomous driving technology, allowing it to navigate complex environments.

The Seungwol Robot has already undergone rigorous testing within the dense steel structures found inside ships. Recently, it successfully performed welding tasks at Samsung Heavy Industries’ shipbuilding site. DIDEN Robotics plans to deploy this robot for welding, inspection, and coating tasks starting in 2026. In addition, the company is developing ‘DIDEN Walker,’ a bipedal robot that can walk stably in the confined spaces of shipyards. The upper body of this robot is equipped with a welding device, aiming to automate various processes in the shipbuilding industry.

Humanoid Robots Navigating Urban Spaces

Another significant development comes from UROBOTICS, a startup founded by Professor Myung Hyun from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. The company has created a ‘blind locomotion controller’ that enables humanoid robots to walk without relying on LiDAR, a key sensor used in cameras and autonomous driving systems. This technology allows the robot to navigate urban environments naturally, even among people.

Recently, the humanoid robot equipped with this technology gained attention for its ability to walk naturally during the morning commute in Gangnam. Unlike traditional systems that rely on external sensors, this robot uses built-in information to ‘imagine’ the terrain, enabling stable movement regardless of weather conditions. It can effortlessly ascend and descend stairs and slopes.

Professor Myung Hyun’s team previously achieved international recognition by winning first place in an academic competition against institutions like MIT. Their groundbreaking research will be officially announced at the International Conference on Humanoid Robots ‘Humanoids 2025’ on October 1st.

Expanding Horizons for Robotics

These advancements illustrate how KAIST laboratories are not only fostering innovation but also ensuring that robotic technologies find practical applications in diverse settings. From industrial environments to bustling urban areas, these robots are redefining what is possible in automation and human-robot interaction.

As these startups continue to develop and refine their technologies, they are setting the stage for a future where robotics plays an even more integral role in everyday life. Whether it's enhancing productivity in shipyards or improving mobility in cities, the potential for these innovations is vast and promising.

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