Hyundai and Kia Begin X-ble Shoulder Wearable Robot Deliveries with Korean Air

• Korean Air has received the first X-ble Shoulder wearable robot for use across its aerospace maintenance operations.
• Hyundai and Kia plan to expand domestic sales now, with global market entry targeted for 2026.

Hyundai and Kia have officially launched their new wearable robot, the X-ble Shoulder, with the first unit delivered to Korean Air. This marks the start of product sales in Korea and the robot’s first use in real-world operations. Global expansion is targeted for 2026.

Korean Air will use the wearable robot throughout its aerospace operations, including work on commercial and military aircraft, drones, and satellite systems. Built to ease strain during overhead tasks, the robot is intended to help protect workers’ health and improve how they work.

"We anticipate that workers’ health and job satisfaction will be enhanced through the introduction of X-ble Shoulder. We are actively reviewing further adoption to uphold the highest standards in both aircraft manufacturing and maintenance safety and quality," said Hyunboh Jung, Managing Vice President and Head of Aerostructure Business Department at Korean Air, in an official news release.

The X-ble Shoulder uses a mechanical system to support shoulder movement without batteries, making it lighter and easier to maintain. According to Hyundai and Kia’s Robotics LAB, it can reduce shoulder stress by up to 60% and muscle effort by 30%. More than 300 workers tested the device during development, helping refine its design.

🌀 Tom’s Take:

Wearable robots like the X-ble Shoulder are a great reminder of how tech can work with the body, not just around it. They move with us in 3D space, respond to the tasks we’re doing, and are built to actually help where it counts, like easing the strain of overhead work.

Source: Hyundai Newsroom