Robots Debut on Subway Line 9... VD Robotics Launches Pilot Operation

Pilot Operation of Guide and Advertising Robots
Simultaneously Verifying Public Value and Business Potential

On July 15, VD Robotics announced that it will begin a Proof of Concept (PoC) with Seoul Metro Line 9 to test the feasibility of operating robots within subway stations for about one month. The pilot operation will take place at Noryangjin Station and Dongjak Station on Subway Line 9, where guide robots and advertising robots will be deployed for different purposes to measure citizen responses and operational effectiveness.

This PoC aims to simultaneously verify both the public value of enhancing citizen convenience in a representative public space like a subway station and the advertising effectiveness and commercial potential. Furthermore, it goes beyond a simple one-time demonstration, marking the first attempt by a private company, VD Robotics, to apply a 'service robotics' model that encompasses both public interest and commercial viability in a real-world setting.

Image of the robot VD Robotics is piloting on Seoul Subway Line 9. VD Robotics

VD Robotics will utilize two types of robots in this PoC. First, the 'KettyBot' is a display-based guide robot designed to provide intuitive visual information in response to frequently asked questions from subway users. It is operated with the public interest in mind, aiming to reduce the burden on station staff who repeatedly handle similar inquiries and to improve user convenience. KettyBot is expected to effectively address more than 100 customer service-related questions per day through its display, thereby enhancing customer service quality and improving the work efficiency of on-site staff. In addition, it can escort users to key locations such as the lost and found center and restrooms, providing not only visual guidance but also actual route guidance.

The 'PuduBot Pro' will be used as an advertising robot. This robot broadcasts advertisements and moves autonomously, exposing advertisements along its route to capture passenger attention and verify business viability. VD Robotics plans to analyze the advertising effectiveness and user recognition of robots within subway stations to explore the potential for future expansion as a commercial robotic media platform.

Shin Hyunil, head of the Robot Advertising Task Force at VD Robotics, said, "Robotics projects in both the public and private sectors have largely operated under a procurement service structure, but this project will serve as an important opportunity to explore the potential for joint ventures," adding, "We expect it will set a new standard for the use of service robots in urban spaces."