World Robo Festa Opens in Chungnam: Youths from 16 Countries Compete in Robotics

Nearly 2,000 Youths Compete in Robotics Skills
Startup and University Student Entrepreneurship Contests Also Heat Up

Youths and aspiring entrepreneurs from around the world have gathered in Chungnam to compete in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

The '2025 World Robo Festa' opened on August 5 at the Sangmyung University campus in Cheonan, Chungnam. Organized by Chungnam Province and the Chungnam Content Agency, the event was established to promote the spread of robotics and AI technologies, as well as to foster a youth startup ecosystem.

The international robotics competition for youths attracted 1,990 participants from Korea and 16 other countries. Participants are competing both online and offline in 23 categories, including robot soccer, bowling, autonomous driving, and coding racing. The event also features science experience activities and local exploration programs, providing a platform for global exchange.

In the startup competition, 12 promising startups that have been established for less than seven years presented innovative technologies and business models, including autonomous agricultural robots and waste plastic recycling solutions.

The top eight companies will receive various forms of support, such as recommendations for TIPS (Tech Incubator Program for Startup) and additional points for admission to Chungnam Green Startup Town.

In addition, opportunities for investment consultations with six venture capital and accelerator firms have been arranged, which are expected to lead to tangible results.

In the university (including graduate) student startup competition, 12 teams participated and presented their original ideas. Among them, seven teams were selected as winners and will receive up to 5 million won in prize money.

Chungnam Vice Governor for Political Affairs Jeon Hyungsik stated, "This event will serve as a catalyst for leading the future industries centered on robotics and AI, and for driving the growth of youth startups and global startups. We will continue to provide support so that Chungnam can establish itself as a hub for digital convergence industries."