When robots 'stretch' on the catwalk

No longer confined to sterile laboratories, a fleet of humanoid robots made a surprising "invasion" of the Seoul fashion runway (catwalk) in trendy outfits.

Models strutted down the catwalk alongside robots at a fashion show in Seoul on May 28.

Photo: AFP

When the catwalk isn't just for people

AFP recently reported on a truly unique and high-tech fashion event in Seoul, South Korea. Instead of the monotonous walk of traditional models, the audience witnessed an impromptu catwalk show featuring humans and humanoid robots in matching outfits.

Watching the show, many were impressed by the diversity of the designs. From a sophisticated blue Texas cowboy-style outfit with delicate fringes designed specifically for the robots, to futuristic silver puffer jackets. The runway even featured soft silk dresses and wide-legged black trousers with asymmetrical hems, a classic style popularized by rock star David Bowie in the 1970s. All were precisely tailored to fit perfectly within the robots' metal skeletons.

The company behind this bold idea is Galaxy Corporation. Sharing his thoughts on the event, CEO Choi Yong Ho frankly posed the question of the future: "How can humans and robots coexist harmoniously? The answer begins with our realization that robots also need to wear clothes. Just as each human being is a unique individual, we believe that each machine entity deserves to possess its own distinct identifying characteristics." All of these designs are expected to be launched under the "MACH 33" brand later this year.

According to technology experts, the "robotic models" that appeared in Seoul this time are actually humanoid robots manufactured by Unitree, a prominent Chinese startup. These devices are highly popular globally due to their reasonable price and incredible agility. They have demonstrated their coordination through elaborately choreographed dances, participated in speed races, and even performed acrobatic maneuvers flawlessly in the air.

When even robots need to "dress up"

The explosion of technology is painting a new picture for life. The renowned financial firm Morgan Stanley once predicted that by 2050, the world could have over a billion robots operating simultaneously. While fully autonomous robots, utilizing artificial intelligence and physical reasoning, are still rare, and most performances still rely on pre-programmed instructions or remote control, Seoul's pioneering move clearly opens up a very realistic vision of a future technological society.

The unique fashion show in Seoul is merely the "tip of the iceberg" in the context of the escalating global race to develop humanoid robots. According to the latest technology trends report by Bloomberg , major technology corporations from the US, China, and South Korea are investing billions of dollars in commercializing robots to move them out of factories and into social life. Beyond manual labor, the next generation of robots integrated with artificial intelligence is being shaped to become household assistants, service workers, and companions for humans.

This shift presents a new challenge in behavioral psychology and popular culture. According to an analysis by The New York Times , for robots to truly "integrate into society," manufacturers must find ways to erase the feeling of alienation and coldness associated with machines. The unique fashion show in South Korea offers a solution to this problem. By styling and dressing robots, developers are gradually bringing technology closer to the human world.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/khi-robot-sai-buoc-บน-san-catwalk-185260530080038305.htm