Coway Launches Wearable Walking Robot with Velobotic

Recap

Source: 디일렉, report of Oct. 2, 2026

According to the report, Coway launched a wearable robot on October 2 that assists with walking by being worn around the waist. The device was developed in collaboration with the global robotics firm Velobotic. Users attach the main body to their hips and connect leg straps to the system. The combined weight of the body and wearables is 1.6kg, utilizing carbon materials and fabric. The system uses human-compliant joint technology to detect user movement and provide walking assistance.

The product offers seven distinct modes tailored to different activities. These include an Air mode to reduce energy consumption, an Aqua mode that adds resistance for lower-body exercise, and a Care mode for users with slower gait. Additional modes include Hiking for stairs and slopes, Balance for left-right stability, Soft for shock absorption, and Slow Jogging for light running. The device features IP65 dust and water resistance. Charging takes 2 hours with a 45W charger, and the Air mode at level 1 offers a maximum of 2 hours of continuous use.

A dedicated app analyzes walking data, providing voice guidance on stride and speed, and suggesting exercise programs. Coway is selling the product exclusively through a rental service. The standard rental period is 60 months, but short-term rentals of 3, 6, or 12 months are also available for trial purposes. Customers can experience the product at Coway Gallery stores nationwide.

Context

Wearable exoskeletons for gait assistance have become a significant sector in assistive robotics, particularly for aging populations. While many competitors focus on industrial or heavy-duty applications, Coway’s entry targets the consumer and home-care market. The collaboration with Velobotic, a company known for its exoskeleton technology, suggests a focus on integrating specialized robotic hardware with Coway’s strong distribution and service network. The emphasis on rental models aligns with the high cost of such devices, making them more accessible to a broader demographic.

Robot's take

The launch highlights a shift toward consumer-friendly, rental-based models for assistive robotics. The inclusion of diverse modes, from resistance training to hiking, suggests an attempt to broaden the device’s utility beyond simple mobility assistance. However, the reliance on a long-term rental contract may limit its appeal to users who prefer ownership. The reported clinical results, showing significant improvements in gait speed and strength, are promising, but individual results may vary. It remains to be seen how the device performs in real-world, long-term use compared to other assistive technologies.