South Korea’s commitment to robotics innovation takes center stage as Hyundai Motor Group’s Robotics Lab prepares to introduce the MobED mobile platform at Automation World (AW) 2026 in Seoul. Interest is growing not only in advanced robotics but also in how artificial intelligence is being woven into manufacturing and logistics environments globally. International industry players and Korean innovators alike are set to present their solutions, reflecting a rapid expansion of automation technology and AI in industrial contexts. Attendees at AW 2026 are expected to gain exposure to technologies that could soon become standard tools across factories and warehouses, possibly shifting operational paradigms for years to come.
As AW 2026 emerges, the robotics landscape has shifted beyond conventional displays of machinery. Last year’s events from other global expositions also captured the fusion of AI with robotics, but Korean companies—including Hyundai—have made clear advances in system versatility and application breadth, especially through products like MobED. When first announced, MobED’s modular design and adaptability gained attention, and industry observers noted its potential impact on routine logistics and diverse industrial tasks. This year, a strong presence from international leaders signals that the convergence of robotics, mobility, and AI has reached new levels, promising further integration across the sector.
What Differentiates MobED in Advanced Industrial Robotics?
Hyundai’s MobED, an acronym for “Mobile Eccentric Droid,” features four independently controlled wheels equipped with unique mechanisms for enhanced balance and agility. Its design is aimed at robust performance across a variety of terrains—both inside and out—enabling use in environments such as factories, warehouses, and outdoor logistics sites. MobED recently received a “Best of Innovation Award” at CES 2026, underscoring its adaptability for industrial needs.
How Are Industry Leaders Showcasing Robotics and AI at AW 2026?
AW 2026 will bring together over 50 global robotics firms, including FANUC, Universal Robots, and Geekplus, offering a comprehensive view of current technological trends. Organizers highlight the event’s broad focus, moving away from traditional smart factory concepts towards AI-native systems, autonomous platforms, and next-generation collaborative robots. Other Korean organizations, such as Hyundai Glovis, Hyundai Movex, ROBOTIS, Yujin Robot, and Wonik Robotics, will also present their solutions, aiming to demonstrate Korea’s growing capabilities in the field.
What Can Attendees Expect from the Smart Logistics Zone?
Organizers have established a Smart Logistics Zone at AW 2026, centering on mobile robotics, autonomous driving, and AI-powered systems to modernize logistics. Beyond static technological showcases, live demonstrations—such as humanoid robots presented by AGIBOT, Fourier, and Leju—will allow visitors to witness operational advances in automation. Conferences featuring executives from companies like Huawei and Unitree will provide broader context on global robotics development. The Secretariat stated,
“Through this exhibition, we expect visitors to be able to witness firsthand how the ‘Robot Wave’ now sweeping across Korea’s manufacturing industry is expanding beyond a technological trend into the industrial and capital markets.”
Expanding on this, organizers see AW 2026 as more than an exhibition for smart factories. They noted,
“AW will serve as a turning point, evolving beyond a traditional smart factory-focused exhibition into a one that highlights the humanoid industry based on AI and robotics.”
Pre-registration via the event website offers attendees complimentary access and priority engagement with the latest intelligent manufacturing trends, aiming to facilitate informed dialogue within the industry.
Advancements such as MobED illustrate the practical applications of combining mobile robotics and AI, responding directly to real-world manufacturing and logistical challenges. For industry professionals, understanding the integration of AI into robotics and the multiplier effect on factory efficiency can be vital for future project planning and competitive positioning. Observing live demonstrations and networking with technology leaders at AW 2026 may reveal early signals of broader industry adoption. For those involved in automation and industrial robotics, events like AW 2026 serve as useful touchpoints for tracking market direction, user needs, and emerging collaboration possibilities.
