Yeawon Kim of Daegu Seongbo School, Wheelchair User, Throws Ceremonial First Pitch in Pro Baseball with Gait Rehabilitation Robot

Daegu Seongbo School (Principal Kim Yeonho) announced that second-year high school student Yeawon Kim successfully threw the ceremonial first pitch in a professional baseball game while wearing an AI gait rehabilitation robot.

On September 11 at 6:30 p.m., Yeawon Kim took the mound at Daegu Samsung Lions Park for a professional baseball game, assisted by an AI wearable gait rehabilitation robot. Yeawon Kim, who usually uses a wheelchair in daily life, has been participating in the school's "AI Gait Rehabilitation Robot Education Program" since March 2024.

Daegu Seongbo School student Ye-won Kim, who usually relies on a wheelchair, is throwing the first pitch in a professional baseball game with the help of a walking rehabilitation robot.

In December 2023, Daegu Seongbo School became the first public special school for physical disabilities to introduce two AI wearable gait rehabilitation robots, providing customized physical activity education for each student. By allowing students to experience walking on the ground themselves, the program systematically helps improve muscle strength, expand joint range of motion, and maintain proper posture.

Additionally, after signing an agreement with Angel Robotics in December 2023, the school established a cooperative system with professional institutions such as the Korean Society of Robotic Physical Therapy, Daegu University College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hosanna University, and New Life Rehabilitation Hospital through memorandums of understanding (MOUs). Based on this, a "Health Management Support Team" consisting of university professors, doctors, physical therapists, and special education teachers has been formed to support students' rehabilitation education.

As an enthusiastic baseball fan, Yeawon Kim said, "My dream of taking the mound and throwing the first pitch came true with the help of the robot. Thanks to everyone's support, I felt more happiness than nervousness, and I hope my challenge will become a small source of hope for other friends."

Principal Kim Yeonho stated, "This ceremonial first pitch is a living result of our school's customized special education utilizing AI digital technology. We will continue to provide full support so that every student can fully realize their potential and become confident, independent members of society."