Hyundai and Kia expand use of wearable robot

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation are collaborating with Korea's Rural Development Administration (RDA) to revolutionise agricultural practices through its wearable robot, the X-ble Shoulder. Developed by Hyundai and Kia's Robotics LAB, the companies aim to deploy it to farming sites across Korea.

This strategic partnership is designed to enhance farmers' health and safety while improving operational efficiency in agricultural work.

Hyundai and Kia plan to validate the usability of the X-ble Shoulder in farming conditions

Tests to measure changes in deltoid muscle activity during high-load shoulder tasks were undertaken earlier in 2025 to evaluate the X-ble Shoulder's effectiveness in agricultural environments. The results found that wearing the X-ble Shoulder reduced shoulder muscle activation by approximately 22%, confirming its potential to alleviate shoulder joint load for farmers.

The RDA will play a critical role in supporting the demonstration and usability assessments of wearable robot in the field, identifying demand sources, and connecting with related institutions to facilitate wider adoption. Additionally, the RDA will produce and distribute educational content showcasing the progress of this collaboration.

Following the first delivery of the X-ble Shoulder to Korean Air in July 2025, both Hyundai and Kia have expanded supply to clients such as the Korea Railroad Corporation, Hyundai Transys, and Hyundai Rotem, further broadening the application of wearable robot across industrial sectors.