- Seoul National University has launched a national research institute to study next-generation physical artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics technologies.
- The Robotics National Research Institute opened on the 18th at the Haedong Advanced Engineering Hall of Seoul National University in Gwanak District, Seoul.
- Attendees watched a humanoid robot somersaulting during a ceremony at Seoul National University on Aug. 18, 2026.
- The institute was established after being selected in June for the '2026 Basic Research Program National Research Lab (NRL 2.0)' by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science and ICT.
- Selected institutes will receive 10 billion won each year for 10 years.
- The research areas include everyday-life robots that assist daily living, wearable robots that support or augment human bodily functions, and medical robots that perform diagnosis and treatment inside the body.
- The institute will also study modular reconfiguration technology and biomimicry that allow a robot's form and function to change according to its environment and mission.
- Seoul National University is exploring ways to apply this research to social needs such as care related to aging and assistance with bodily functions.
Seoul National University has officially launched its Robotics National Research Institute on August 18, 2026, at the Haedong Advanced Engineering Hall. This initiative, part of the '2026 Basic Research Program National Research Lab (NRL 2.0)', will receive 10 billion won annually for 10 years from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science and ICT.12458
The institute aims to explore next-generation physical AI and robotics technologies, focusing on three primary research areas: everyday-life robots that assist with daily living, wearable robots that enhance human bodily functions, and medical robots for diagnosis and treatment.6
Additionally, the institute will investigate modular reconfiguration technology and biomimicry, enabling robots to adapt their form and function based on environmental needs. This research is particularly relevant for addressing social challenges, such as aging care and assistance with bodily functions.7
The launch event featured demonstrations of robots performing aerial cartwheels and somersaults, showcasing the innovative capabilities of the university's research team. The establishment of this institute marks a significant step forward in the field of robotics and AI in South Korea.
“The institute focuses on three main research areas: everyday-life robots, wearable robots, and medical robots for diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, it will explore modular reconfiguration technology and biomimicry to adapt robots' forms and functions to various environments and missions.”
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