The Invention Lab announced on the 24th that it has selected five finalists for its ‘Pure Robotics Challenge,’ a robotics-focused investment program in partnership with key investors, including Woomi, Aju, Kukbo Design, Higen RNM, and X Alliance.

The Invention Lab also finalized the formation of a KRW 1.5 billion (approximately USD 1.1 million) ‘Open Innovation Alliance Fund 2.’ As part of this initiative, the lab has committed to investing at least KRW 200 million (around USD 150,000) in each of the selected startups in robotics and related fields.

The five chosen companies are:

• Zio Robot : modular collaborative mobile robot)
• Mithril :  AI-based active safety management automation solution
• Kyte Dynamics : dual drone solution
• MicroPix : ultra-small camera solution based on micro-lens array
• H.MedicGear : development of devices for laparoscopic surgery assistant robots

These startups are leading the convergence of robotics and AI technologies, demonstrating high technical capabilities and significant growth potential. Through this program, they are expected to grow into globally competitive companies within the robotics market.

Zio Robot has developed a modular collaborative mobile robot that provides a flexible solution for multi-task environments. Mithril offers an innovative AI-based safety management automation solution that significantly enhances safety at industrial sites. Kyte Dynamics is tackling the limitations of traditional drones with its dual drone solution, providing high efficiency and diverse application possibilities. MicroPix is advancing next-generation sensing technology with its ultra-small micro-lens array-based camera solution. H.MedicGear is showcasing its technical expertise by developing devices for laparoscopic surgery assistant robots.

The dedicated open innovation fund established for this program is the second of its kind, following the first one launched last year. This fund was created to support startups in the robotics field, with a particular focus on AI robots.

Jin-young Kim, CEO of The Invention Lab, emphasized, “The startups participating in this program have the potential to revolutionize industries by combining robotics and AI technologies. Each team’s technical capabilities and creative solutions provide real value that can be applied to actual industrial sites, beyond simple technology development.”

He added, “Through our collaboration with Woomi, Aju, Kukbo Design, Higen RNM, and X Alliance, we will accelerate innovation in the robotics field and continue to support these startups so they can grow into globally competitive companies. This selection is not merely about investment; we will provide various cooperation and networking opportunities to help their technologies become commercialized and expanded in international markets, such as the Middle East and Malaysia.”