South Korea's urban streets are about to welcome a new reality: pedestrian robots. With recent legislative changes, these robots intended for patrol tasks and . they will be able to circulate on the sidewalks together with pedestrians. This breakthrough in integrating technology into everyday life highlights a balance between innovation and regulation. A balance that has well-defined safety criteria. While citizens prepare for this novelty, an urban landscape emerges where the coexistence between man and machine begins to take shape in a tangible and regulated way.
Technology and standards
The green light for pedestrian robots, promoted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the National Police Agency, represents a significant change in South Korean laws. Previously, robots were not authorized to operate on pavements: now, with the introduction of new regulations, they can be used provided certain conditions are respected. Among the clearest? The robots they must not exceed 500 kg in weight. They must maintain a speed of less than 15 km/h, and must be covered by an insurance policy.
A crucial aspect of this innovation is security. Pedestrian robots will have to overcome a test consisting of 16 points. The test evaluates their compliance with specific criteria, such as the ability to stay within designated operating zones and safely cross pedestrian streets. A middle ground between a driving license and a psycho-aptitude test. Once they pass the test, they will obtain a safety certification. It is important to note that the responsibility for safety lies with the operators of external mobile robots, who will be subject to normal traffic laws.
Pedestrian robots, expectations and precautions
Despite the technical possibility of seeing these robots among pedestrians, it is very likely that it will take at least a month before they become a common presence. The Ministry has yet to designate a government body for robot certification and specific insurance products are being developed, which will include coverage for any damage caused by robots to people or property.
What do I think?
It feels strange to me to talk about these things. I feel the tangible difference between a "frontier" topic and a consolidated reality, and I feel that we are right at the center of this transition. The integration of robots into daily life is not just a Korean phenomenon: throughout Asia, the presence of non-humanoid robots in restaurants, hospitals and other public places is becoming increasingly common. This development will open doors to new opportunities for the robot industry in South Korea. The Ministry is working on an “Advanced Vision and Strategy of the Robot Industry” to promote related sectors and stimulate the operation of new robot-based enterprises mobile robots outdoors.
This step marks a significant moment in the evolution of human-machine coexistence. South Korea is thus positioning itself as a living laboratory for robotic innovation, offering a glimpse into a future in which technology and everyday life become even closer together.
