KIMM Marks 50th Anniversary, Unveils 'KAIROS' to Lead the Next 50 Years

First Public Unveiling of Humanoid Robot
Presenting a Vision for AI, Carbon Neutrality, and Space Exploration

The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) marked its 50th anniversary by unveiling its next-generation AI humanoid 'KAIROS' for the first time and announcing its future vision, 'KIMM-NEXT 50.' This declaration signals KIMM's ambition to expand its role beyond the foundation of manufacturing technology and lead the era of 'intelligent machine civilization.'

On April 14, KIMM held its 50th anniversary ceremony at its headquarters in Daejeon and announced the slogan, "A New Journey Toward Intelligent Machine Civilization." The highlight of the event, which drew about 400 attendees, was the first official appearance of the AI humanoid robot 'KAIROS,' currently under development as part of the national strategic technology project, 'K-Moonshot.'

At the 50th anniversary ceremony of the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, Director Seokhyun Ryu is delivering a commemorative speech. Courtesy of Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials

KAIROS is a next-generation robot platform designed for human interaction, autonomous learning, and industrial field applications. Although still in the early stages of development, it holds significant symbolic value as KIMM is positioning it as a flagship brand that could eventually transform the paradigm of automation and collaboration across both industry and daily life.

On this day, KIMM also unveiled its future vision, 'KIMM-NEXT 50,' along with five major challenge goals. The pillars are: ▲ Intelligent Physical AI ▲ Carbon-Neutral Engineering Platform ▲ Ultra-Precision Advanced Manufacturing Equipment ▲ Health & Safety Technology ▲ Polar and Space Exploration Engines. By encompassing all national strategic agendas—including AI transformation (AX), manufacturing innovation, carbon neutrality, and aerospace—KIMM aims to strengthen its role as an industrial platform institution moving forward.

KIMM also presented its blueprint, "A Preview of 2050." The vision is to connect humanoids, zero-carbon energy, bio-machinery, intelligent manufacturing equipment, aerospace and defense, and virtual engineering, creating a single mechanical technology ecosystem that links homes and factories, Earth and space.

The institute also unveiled five flagship brands to realize this vision: the humanoid 'KAIROS,' advanced manufacturing solution 'MANUX,' industrial heat energy conversion technology 'KHEATUP,' air purification technology 'Air Five,' and the virtual engineering platform 'KIMM Cyber Labs.'

Ryu Seokhyun, President of the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, said, "If the past 50 years have been dedicated to Korea's industrialization, the next 50 years will be about leading the era of intelligent machine civilization and solving global challenges for humanity."

Starting with this anniversary ceremony, KIMM will host 'Machinery Week' until April 19, featuring hands-on events and public programs in conjunction with the 2026 Korea Science Festival in Daejeon.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.