Kazakhstan's "Digital Bridge Forum 2025"
Robots Mimicking Hand Gestures and Robot Dog Performances Draw Attention
Wearing gloves and facing off in the ring, they soon began their match. Taking turns extending their arms, they attacked each other, and when one side fell, the referee started the countdown. Sometimes, their punches sliced through the air. The winner performed a simple celebration, and after the match ended, all of them sprawled out on chairs placed in the corners of the ring to rest.
On the 2nd to 4th (local time) at the 'Digital Bridge Forum 2025' held in Astana, Kazakhstan, two humanoid robots developed by China's Unitree are boxing in the exhibition hall. Photo by Noh Kyungjo
This was the scene at one corner of the exhibition hall at the 'Digital Bridge Forum 2025,' held from October 2 to 4 (local time) in Astana, Kazakhstan, where humanoid robots took center stage. Each time a match began, a crowd of spectators gathered around the ring, cheering as if they were watching a real boxing match between humans.
Next to the ring, there was also a robot dog that could run, lie down, go up and down stairs, and even lift its upper body to draw a heart above its head. It was just as popular as the boxing robots. All of these robots were developed and programmed by China's Unitree.
A humanoid robot programmed by the Kazakhstan USTEM Foundation also attracted attention. This robot mimicked the hand movements of a person within its field of vision. According to a representative, it was designed for people who use wheelchairs or need to control situations with their hands. The main body of the robot was manufactured in China.
A representative from the USTEM Foundation explained, "It has not been commercialized yet," and added, "In addition to the default English and Chinese, we are currently training it to communicate in Kazakh." It was the first time the robot had been showcased at such a large exhibition, and the representative expressed excitement at the enthusiastic response from visitors.
From June 2 to 4 (local time), at the 'Digital Bridge Forum 2025' held in Astana, Kazakhstan, a robot programmed by the local USTEM Foundation is mimicking the hand movements of a person opposite it at the exhibition. Photo by Noh Kyungjo
The exhibition hall was filled with a robot zone, immersive technology demonstration spaces, and booths from companies showcasing the direction and solutions of digital industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, and adtech. For industry professionals, it provided inspiration, while visitors could experience technological advancements and enjoy themselves.
Meanwhile, the Digital Bridge Forum, now in its sixth year, was held under the theme of "Generative Nation," offering a glimpse into the advanced technologies and AI-powered knowledge-based society that Kazakhstan is striving to build.
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