Physical AI is emerging as a game-changer in the manufacturing industry, and South Korea is focusing its national capabilities on this area. Please keep an eye on the journey of our key player, the Korea Institute of Machinery."
Ryu Seok-hyun, the director of the Korea Institute of Machinery, which plays a significant role in machine, especially physical artificial intelligence (AI) and robot research and development (R&D), stated this at the 'Korea IT Leaders Forum' held at the Korea Press Center on the 17th. Leveraging R&D efforts in the field of robotics that have been accumulated over the institution's 50-year history, they are aiming for the global stage.
During his lecture on 'The Current Status and Development Direction of Physical AI in Korea,' Director Ryu asserted that "humanoid robots will be the core of the future of humanity" and emphasized that "the Institute of Machinery, which can be called the history of Korean robots, is preparing for global achievements."
Established in 1986, the Institute of Machinery unveiled the 'Industrial 6-Axis Multi-joint Robot,' the first of its kind in Korea after 10 years of its establishment, and attracted attention by introducing the industrial dual-arm robot 'Amiro' in 2010. Furthermore, they are currently developing 'K-Humanoid' while overseeing the top global strategic research group 'Autonomous Growth AI Humanoid Strategic Research Group'.
The goal is to catch two rabbits, agility and operability. It enables smooth movements as well as precise manipulation control.
Director Ryu stated, "Next year, we plan to unveil Version 1, which implements basic human movement, and by 2030, we aim to release Version 2 with added human-level operability," adding that "by 2050, securing global top 3 technological leadership in AI humanoid robots is our goal."
He expressed confidence in their technological capabilities. He mentioned that if the entire humanoid HW platform is 100, the Institute of Machinery has consistently built capacity in all areas, including 'actuators' accounting for 60-70, hands (grippers), whole-body sensory areas, related materials, parts, and equipment.
Director Ryu also introduced trends, institutional capabilities, and achievements in various areas such as 'field robots' and 'medical robots' that function in diverse unstructured environments, as well as 'digital twins' that play a significant role in robot operations.
Regarding Physical AI and humanoid robots, he also shared insights on the South Korean industry, forecasting that opportunities will come to our country.
Director Ryu stated, "Robot assembly is similar to assembling a car, so our globally renowned automobile companies can exert their strength sufficiently," and forecasted that "such 'robot foundries' can act as a great opportunity for us."
He further stated, "Although we may say we are 'late' in humanoid robots and Physical AI, we can lead sufficiently," and said, "The Institute of Machinery will make every effort.