Robot 'Atlas' Mimics Son Heung-min's Celebration at World Cup Halftime Show

Boston Dynamics' humanoid robot, Atlas, took center stage during halftime at a World Cup Round of 16 match, showcasing advanced robotics to a global audience. The robot, a next-generation electric development model first revealed at CES 2026, mimicked the goal celebrations of international stars including Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, Matheus Cunha, and Son Heung-min.

Hyundai Motor Group, which presented the performance, stated that Atlas successfully delivered the match ball to the referee. The robot's fluid movements incorporated retargeting technology to adapt human motions to its robotic structure, simulation-based reinforcement learning, and full-body control systems that allow all joints to act in unison. This demonstration highlighted the practical application of the group's future robotics vision in unpredictable, public settings like a sports stadium.

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The stable execution of complex movements by Atlas in a public venue with many variables, like a stadium, serves as a case study demonstrating the practical applicability of the future robotics technology the group is pursuing.

Alberto Rodriguez, Atlas's Head of Behavior Policy at Boston Dynamics, emphasized that the performance was driven by AI learning technologies used in real industrial settings. He expressed a commitment to continued innovation, aiming to let more people experience the potential and value of advanced robotics. The event marked the first public display of this model's capabilities outside of brand videos.

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This performance was realized based on AI learning technologies applied in actual industrial fields. We will continue to innovate so that more people can experience the possibilities and value of advanced robotics.