Imagine a real-life version of Iron Man—except this one isn’t saving the world; it’s helping people walk again. That’s exactly what engineers at KAIST have built with their WalkON Suit F1, a wearable exoskeleton designed to restore mobility to individuals with paraplegia.
What Is the WalkON Suit F1?
Developed by the Exoskeleton Laboratory at KAIST, the WalkON Suit F1 is a groundbreaking exoskeleton weighing around 50 kg (110 lb), made from durable aluminum and titanium. Powered by 12 electronic motors, it mimics human joint movement to assist users in walking, side-stepping, and even climbing stairs at up to 3.2 km/h (2 mph).
Features That Make It Stand Out
- Frontal Docking Mechanism: The suit can approach a user (even seated in a wheelchair) and automatically lock onto them—no help required.
- Real-Time Sensing: Sensors in the soles and upper body process over 1,000 signals per second to anticipate user movement and maintain balance.
- Environmental Detection: Cameras on the suit “see” obstacles, stair heights, and terrain changes in real time—like having robotic eyes guiding you.
Real-Life Impact: Kim Seung-hwan’s Story
Kim Seung‑hwan—part of the research team and a paraplegic himself—demonstrated the WalkON Suit F1’s capability by walking, climbing stairs, and sliding into a bench. His remarkable performance earned him a gold medal at Cybathlon 2024 in the exoskeleton category. He shared a personal motivation:
“I wanted to tell my son … that I also used to be able to walk. I wanted to share a diverse range of experiences with him.”
Engineering Inspired by Iron Man
Senior engineers at KAIST, including Park Jeong‑su, say they were inspired by the Iron Man suit in designing the WalkON F1. Their goal was simple and human: to empower individuals with disabilities using robotics.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just a university prototype—it’s a meaningful leap forward for assistive robotics. Lightweight yet strong, intelligent, and self-attaching, the WalkON Suit F1 offers real-world usability for daily living and independence for people with paraplegia.
It helps users walk, climb stairs and navigate obstacles
South Korean researchers at KAIST have developed an Iron Man-like wearable robot that helps paraplegic users walk, navigate obstacles, and climb stairs.