South Korea showcases AI robot integration in shipyards, refineries, and logistics

South Korea is accelerating the integration of artificial intelligence robots into its industrial landscape, showcasing advancements in real-world applications across various sectors. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy presented the outcomes of its AI robot demonstration and development projects at the '2nd Manufacturing AI Transformation (M.AX) Conference' held in Seoul.

The ministry highlighted the deployment of AI-driven robots in demanding environments such as shipyards, oil refineries, and logistics centers. These robots are designed to take over dangerous and repetitive tasks, with plans to expand their application scope and expedite their introduction to industrial sites. The M.AX Alliance, a public-private partnership, is central to these efforts, involving over 280 organizations focused on AI robot model development, domestic production of key components, and on-site demonstrations.

A notable example is an AI-based four-legged welding robot developed by Diden Robotics, currently undergoing field trials at HD Hyundai Samho's shipyard since February. This robot utilizes high-speed switching magnets to navigate vertical walls and ceilings, employing vision AI for its welding path planning. The ministry aims for its deployment within the year.

Beyond heavy industry, robots are also entering consumer-facing and public safety roles. A precision cleaning robot with vision AI has reduced water usage by 40% at a food processing plant. In Seongnam City, autonomous patrol robots are being used in parks and public squares, reportedly leading to a 17% decrease in emergency calls. The development of humanoid robots tailored for specific industrial processes is also underway, with projects focusing on fire monitoring in ship compartments, operating hydraulic valves in hazardous environments, and reclassifying goods in logistics centers, targeting commercialization by 2028.