A clearer view of what matters

Robots are moving beyond simply repeating preset motions. We are getting closer to an era in which they can assess their surroundings and adapt their movements to the task at hand. The domestic robotics exhibition ‘2026 Robot World,’ where you can see this shift in action, will take place from November 4 to 7 at Hall 1 of KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province.

According to Robot Newspaper, this year’s key themes are humanoid robots, manufacturing AX, and physical AI. Physical AI refers to technology in which artificial intelligence is combined with physical devices such as robots to perceive the real world and carry out tasks. At the event, organizers plan to highlight how robots that understand their surroundings and act accordingly can be used in industrial settings.

The scale of the exhibition is also notable. A total of 402 companies from 20 countries will participate, with 1,200 booths in operation. Visitors will see humanoid robots, quadruped robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and collaborative robots, along with core components such as robot hands, reducers, sensors, and controllers. Another major area is Sim-to-Real, a technology field that applies skills learned in digital environments to real robots. In simple terms, it is an approach that transfers motions and task capabilities learned in virtual space to robots in the real world.

Manufacturing AX is another major topic. It is a method of analyzing production data and process information with AI, then intelligently controlling robots and equipment to improve productivity and flexibility across the manufacturing process. Rather than simply replacing human labor with machines, it aims for a manufacturing environment that can adjust processes depending on the situation, which is why it is drawing attention.

The International Robot Business Conference, held alongside the exhibition, will run on November 4 and 5 under the theme, “Manufacturing Redefined by AI and Robotics.” A total of 36 sessions will be offered across three areas: manufacturing AX, humanoid robots and physical AI, and mobility. According to the report, companies and experts including NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and Hyundai Motor Company are expected to take part and discuss manufacturing innovation, robot work intelligence, and human-robot collaboration.

Programs designed to connect companies are also in place. From November 4 to 6, the overseas export consultation session will bring together more than 100 foreign buyers and 150 domestic participating companies to pursue roughly 450 business meetings. There will also be a purchasing consultation program linking domestic demand companies with robot suppliers, as well as a program to support startup investment attraction.

The significance of this year’s Robot World lies in going beyond showcasing robot demonstrations inside the exhibition hall and examining how the technology can be applied in real manufacturing, logistics, and service environments. In particular, for physical AI to operate reliably on site, AI software must be supported by robot actuators, sensors, and control technologies. That is why the exhibition brings together complete robots, core components, and commercialization programs in one place. Attention will now turn to whether robot autonomy can translate into meaningful change across industrial sites, and what results the exhibition and business meetings will produce.