Korean Robotics

[Anchor Lead]

The use of robots always seems to be expanding. Some specialized robots now even serve as cleaners and domestic helpers. Where does Korea stand in the global robot industry? Take a look.

[Pkg]

This is a cleaning robot at Incheon International Airport.

[Soundbite] "Are you traveling? Enjoy the trip."

The robot takes care of cleaning in the departure and arrival areas. Its sensor automatically recognizes people and objects just one meter away.

[Soundbite] "I am cleaning. May I pass through?"

This guidance robot named AirStar is another airport celebrity. We have asked for directions.

[Soundbite] "(Escort me please.) One moment please."

It leads the way to the destination. A total of ten robots were introduced at Incheon International Airport in July.

[Soundbite] Kim Dae-cheol(Incheon Int'l Airport Corp.) : "We are pushing for multiple projects in our sector for the 4th industrial revolution in efforts to be a leader among global airports, and robotic technology is one of them."

The use of robots is branching out to diverse areas these days such as shopping.

[Soundbite] "I wonder how you feel."

The robot has information about all shops in the department store. You can even try on clothes of your preference.

[Soundbite] "Try on clothes you like. I will be your guide."

In the comfort of a virtual space, the user can try on an outfit displayed in an offline, physical store and even make a purchase.

[Soundbite] An Woong(Lotte Department Store) : "Commercialization of robots is still rare and so customers really enjoy the experience of being guided by a robot."

The government has installed a committee on the fourth industrial revolution as a presidential organ with plans to foster the robotics industry into a strategic sector. Talks on legislating a basic act on robotics are also taking place. With these efforts, Korea is expected to usher in a robotic era in the near future.