Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) announced on Friday that it will participate in the nation’s largest science festival, the 2026 Korea Science and Technology Festival, to celebrate Science Month in April. The institute will operate an interactive exhibition called KAIST Play World, showcasing cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
KAIST plans to unveil tailored, experiential content for different age groups at the Daejeon Convention Center (DCC) and the Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX) in Ilsan. To boost visitor engagement, they’ll feature on-site events and souvenirs starring their mascot, Neobjuk-i.
The Daejeon exhibition, running from April 17 to 19, will offer hands-on experiences with KAIST’s groundbreaking research in advanced robotics, space technology, and AI semiconductors.
Visitors can interact with humanoid robots designed for seamless navigation in industrial and urban settings. They’ll also meet Broca, a mobile social AI agent that goes beyond simple Q&A to form relationships with users. For gaming enthusiasts, there’s a chance to challenge AI in the abstract strategy board game Dual Focus.
The exhibition will also feature OnNeuro, a voice-interactive guide robot, and humanoid robots performing complex moves like the moonwalk and duck walk.
Another highlight is the world’s first deployable lunar exploration rover wheels. Attendees can touch the shape-shifting wheel models and try their hand at origami-inspired space system designs.
The KINTEX exhibition in Gyeonggi, scheduled for April 24-26, will focus on AI and everyday technology applications.
Visitors can test drive Raibo, a quadruped robot that swiftly navigates stairs and rough terrain. The Future Memory Studio offers a glimpse of one’s future self, complete with a four-frame photo keepsake of the experience.
KAIST will demonstrate its AI-Based Heatwave Consumption Index Technology, analyzing climate change impacts on small business revenues. They’ll also unveil AI-driven revenue forecasting tech that presents data through cutting-edge visual and audio generative AI.
The exhibition will also host AI semiconductor-based mobile agent demos and innovative games from student startups, allowing visitors to interact with AI characters.
Through these dual exhibitions, KAIST aims to make science and technology accessible and engaging, illustrating how lab innovations are reshaping the daily lives.
KAIST President Lee Kwang-hyung said that this year’s science festival, spanning Daejeon and Gyeonggi, offers more people a chance to experience KAIST’s groundbreaking research firsthand. It hopes it inspires scientific curiosity and dreams as visitors preview the future shaped by robotics and AI.