This spring, Beijing will host a unique half-marathon where humanoid robots will race alongside humans for the first time.

The event, taking place in the Daxing district in April, will feature 12,000 human runners and robots from over 20 companies.

The robots, designed to look like humans and capable of bipedal movement, will compete in a 21km race.

China’s push for humanoid robot development aims to advance its tech sector, especially in response to an aging population and workforce challenges, the South China Morning Post has reported.

The event reflects China’s growing focus on robotics for various sectors, including elder care and factory automation.

Written by B.C. Begley