South Korean researchers at KAIST have developed the WalkON Suit F1, a lightweight wearable robot that enables paraplegic users to walk, climb stairs, and navigate obstacles.

Demonstrated by team member Kim Seung-hwan, who is paraplegic, the 50 kg exoskeleton uses 12 motors, sensors, and cameras to mimic human joint movements and analyze surroundings in real-time.

Inspired by Iron Man, the suit seamlessly integrates into users’ lives, even approaching and locking onto them while seated, Reuters has reported.

Kim, who won gold in the exoskeleton category at Cybathlon 2024, hopes the suit will help others regain mobility and share meaningful experiences with loved ones.

Written by B.C. Begley