[Weekly Seoul – Reporter Jung Sang-hoon]
Workers in industrial settings are constantly exposed to the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Repetitive motions, unnatural postures, and excessive force often lead to injuries in the shoulders, arms, and lower back.

At the 2025 Korea Build Week held at KINTEX on the 19th, FRT Robotics’ wearable robot was showcased as a solution to these problems. FRT is a leading domestic company specializing in wearable robots, producing the "Step-Up Series" for industrial workers and the "Hyper Series" for defense and firefighting applications.

Visitors showed keen interest in the wearable robot, which has the potential to significantly assist in industrial workplaces. Many tried on the robot, tested its functionality by lifting heavy objects, and even performed squats while wearing it, expressing great admiration for its capabilities.

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Wearable Robots Designed for the Fourth Industrial Revolution

FRT develops and manufactures wearable robots designed to assist people in carrying and transporting heavy loads without feeling their weight. Upon its initial development, CEO Jang Jae-ho predicted that these robots would be particularly useful in the leisure, defense, and firefighting industries.

In a corporate presentation, Jang stated,
"Tasks like assembly are difficult for robots to handle alone, so we are developing various technologies that allow humans to wear robots for strength support in manual labor, or to use robotic assistance when moving heavy objects. Our goal is to create an environment where humans and robots can work together."

At the exhibition, FRT introduced its 4th-generation strength-assist wearable robot, "Step-Up." This robot corrects the wearer's posture, reduces fatigue during repetitive tasks using a passive motion system, and provides focused lumbar support, thereby preventing lower back injuries that may occur during manual labor.

The Step-Up weighs 4.3 kg and has a battery life of up to 8 hours. It offers a 15 kgf (kilogram-force) boost, enabling workers to perform tasks with minimal effort while enhancing safety. The system also features real-time monitoring, tracking the worker's environment and status. With safety sensors and camera modules, it detects hazards and responds quickly to prevent accidents.

A standout feature is its customizability. A lighter, 2 kg model designed specifically for female workers was also on display at the event.

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Wearable Robots Implemented in the Field

Firefighters, who often face hazardous environments and extreme physical exhaustion, have begun using wearable robots. To address these challenges, the Gangwon Fire Department has adopted wearable robots, with 31 Step-Up units distributed to the Chuncheon Fire Station and the East Sea Special Response Unit last year. Gangwon Fire Department plans to evaluate the technology and decide on further adoption by March this year.

During wildfires, firefighters typically spend 6 to 7 hours bent over to establish firebreaks, which can lead to severe back pain and injuries. With the wearable robot, back strain can be reduced by up to 30%.

The robot consists of a spinal support and battery pack worn on the back, a lumbar support casing, and thigh joint components that adjust to the user’s movements. These components support bones and muscles while enhancing strength.

Firefighter Kim Soo-hoon from the East Sea Special Response Unit mentioned in an interview with KBS,
"This technology will greatly help reduce the physical strain on firefighters during long suppression operations, mountain rescues, and tasks involving heavy loads."

Beyond firefighting, wearable robots are also being supplied to nursing homes, the Korea Forest Service, and various industrial companies to reduce workers' physical strain and prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

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The Growing Robotics Market and Future Prospects

Despite the clear benefits of preventing injuries and reducing work intensity, high costs remain a barrier to widespread adoption. Recognizing this, CEO Jang Jae-ho emphasized that FRT is committed to developing affordable products to lower the entry barrier.

He stated,
"Many global companies are researching wearable robots, but their high prices make commercialization difficult. FRT has streamlined the manufacturing process to produce the most practical and cost-effective solutions."

By modularizing the exoskeleton structure, drive system, and components, FRT has drastically reduced customization time and costs, increasing market competitiveness. The 4th-generation Step-Up, unveiled at Korea Build Week, is priced at around 3 million KRW (approximately $2,300 USD).

FRT continues to push forward in developing advanced wearable robotics. The company announced plans to release a slimmer, lighter, and more ergonomic version in Q3 this year and is also working on a specialized model for the agricultural sector.

Looking further ahead, FRT aims to collect and analyze motion data for different work environments and integrate AI technology into humanoid robots by 2028.

Source: Weekly Seoul (https://www.weeklyseoul.net)