The '2026 Smart Factory & Automation Industry Exhibition' kicked off at COEX in Gangnam, Seoul, attracting industry professionals eager to witness the advancements in physical artificial intelligence (AI). With robots actively demonstrating their capabilities by handling various objects, from hefty boxes to lightweight snack packages, the exhibition highlighted the enthusiasm and potential of integrating advanced robotics into manufacturing processes. The event featured 500 companies from 24 countries, underlining the international significance of this exhibition, which focused on "empowering autonomy and sustainability." Attendees could observe first-hand the models of autonomous manufacturing where factories can operate and make decisions independently.

One of the main attractions of the exhibition was the introduction of 'Mobed,' a revolutionary mobility platform from Hyundai Motor Group that autonomously navigates through obstacles while carrying boxes. This platform made its domestic debut, having earlier won the Innovation Award in the robotics category at the CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The exhibition served not only to unveil the latest technological innovations but also to mark the launch of the Mobed Alliance, which aims to promote the platform's sales in South Korea.

In addition to Mobed, Boston Dynamics' humanoid robot 'Atlas' was presented in a non-driving model for the first time in public. Another highlight was the industrial humanoid robots developed by T-Robotics, showcasing a growing trend in physical AI adoption as the manufacturing industry faces challenges such as aging workforce and machinery. Experts emphasize that integrating physical AI into the manufacturing sector is becoming an increasingly unavoidable necessity as companies strive for efficiency and innovation in production capabilities, reinforcing the event's theme of transformation in industry through advanced technology.