At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, the world’s largest IT exhibition, humanoid robots capable of 360-degree rotation, home robots handling chores, and AI wellness devices for personalized health management drew significant attention. The event featured over 4,500 companies from more than 150 countries and attracted 150,000 visitors, showcasing the latest global IT trends. South Korean giants like Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and SK, along with 850 innovative SMEs and startups, demonstrated their technological prowess. These companies went beyond showcasing high-performance devices, introducing innovations such as Physical AI, Zero Labor, and Wellness Home that are applicable to real-life environments.
Hyundai Motor Group unveiled next-generation Atlas humanoid robots, the four-legged Spot robot, the AI Keeper quality inspection solution, the MobED mobility platform, autonomous RoboTaxi, and the X-ble Shoulder wearable robot. The Atlas robot, developed by Boston Dynamics, won the CES 2026 Best Robot Award from CNET for its natural walking and human collaboration capabilities. MobED can smoothly cross curbs up to 20cm high, and the RoboTaxi, equipped with SAE Level 4 autonomous driving, will begin commercial ride-hailing services in Las Vegas this year. LG Electronics showcased CLOiD, a home robot, and demonstrated seamless integration with AI-powered appliances for automated chores and empathetic intelligence.
LG CLOiD performed tasks such as preparing breakfast, folding laundry, and organizing items, impressing visitors with its practical abilities. Integrated with AI refrigerators and WashTower washers, CLOiD recommends optimal courses based on user habits, while all appliances connect to the LG AI HomeHub ‘ThinQ On’ for automated lighting, air quality, and temperature control. Visitors were amazed by the lifelike interaction between robots and appliances, feeling that the AI era is now part of everyday life. Bodyfriend introduced the AI healthcare robot 733, featuring advanced ankle rotation and stretching functions, while Ceragem presented space-specific AI wellness solutions.
The K-robots and AI wellness devices showcased at CES 2026 are evolving to reduce human labor and revolutionize health management. Innovations like Physical AI, Zero Labor, and Wellness Home are expected to reshape the paradigms of smart homes and healthcare industries. The technological advancements and practical applications by Korean companies enhance their global competitiveness and contribute to improving quality of life. Continued integration of AI and robotics is likely to bring forth new services and products, further transforming daily living.
The trends in Physical AI and AI wellness observed at CES 2026 signal a fundamental shift in how labor and health management are approached. As robots and AI become integrated into daily life, automation and personalization in smart homes and healthcare will accelerate. These advancements are poised to address societal challenges such as aging populations, labor shortages, and rising health demands, while strengthening the global leadership of Korean technology companies.