Humanoid robots are moving beyond factories, warehouses and homes and entering a new arena the world of entertainment.
In South Korea, humanoid robots are taking center stage at Galaxy Robot Park, performing popular K-pop songs in front of audiences. The robots have been programmed to dance to hits including BIGBANG’s “Bang Bang Bang” and ROSÉ and Bruno Mars’ “APT.”
The initiative is part of a new entertainment concept developed by Galaxy Corporation, which aims to bring robotics into live performances. The company is also looking to expand the concept to international markets, including the United States, the United Arab Emirates and Japan.
But the idea raises a key question: will audiences embrace robots performing like their favorite K-pop stars?
Unlike traditional live entertainment, where human emotion and connection are central to the experience, robot performances depend on technology to recreate movement, expression and interaction.
Meanwhile, engineers in China are tackling another challenge making robots look and behave more naturally.
At the World Robot Conference in Beijing, Chinese startup Anywit showcased robotic faces designed to reproduce human-like facial expressions. The technology combines multiple degrees of freedom with soft, skin-like materials, allowing robots to smile, react and change expressions.
One of the robots on display featured pink hair and a smooth, human-like face, with expressions that changed along with music. The company says its technology has also been adapted for humanoid platforms such as Unitree’s G1.
The aim is not simply to make robots appear more realistic, but to help them communicate more naturally with humans.
As humanoid technology advances, robots are increasingly being designed not only to perform tasks, but also to entertain, express emotions and become more familiar parts of everyday life.
From K-pop stages in South Korea to expressive robotic faces in China, the next generation of robots may be entering a world where being useful is no longer enough they may also need to connect with an audience.