Kangsters, based in South Korea, has announced that its innovative wheelchair exercise solution, ‘Wheely-X,’ has been selected as one of Time magazine’s ‘200 Best Inventions of 2024.’

Wheely-X was developed to overcome the challenges wheelchair users face when trying to perform aerobic exercises outdoors, such as navigating obstacles and inclines. The device functions similarly to a treadmill, allowing the wheelchair wheels to spin freely, thus enabling users to easily engage in aerobic exercise indoors. To enhance the experience and encourage regular use, Kangsters has developed a dedicated app and a variety of interactive gaming content.

This recognition follows Wheely-X’s receipt of the 2023 Edison Award and a CES 2024 Innovation Award. It was also recognized in the ‘Accessibility’ category of Time’s Best Inventions of the year.

Kang Kim, CEO of Kangsters, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “It is an honor to be selected as one of Time’s best inventions. At Kangsters, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the exhilarating feeling that intense exercise can bring. Aerobic exercise is crucial for wheelchair users who spend their days seated. With Wheely-X, we hope that wheelchair users can lead healthier and happier lives alongside their families.”

Kangsters recently launched ‘Wheely-X Play,’ an expanded game solution featuring eight different games including wheelchair athletics, skiing, and gliding. The release has garnered enthusiastic responses from wheelchair users, disability organizations, welfare centers, and public institutions. Wheely-X has been officially chosen as a sport for the National Disabled e-Sports Tournament and is building the foundation for wheelchair e-sports in Korea. Kangsters plans to expand into global Paralympic e-sports and continue to lead efforts in promoting a barrier-free culture.