Chinese Humanoid Robots Stole the Show at the New Year’s Celebration
During China’s massive Spring Festival Gala, humanoid robots delivered one of the most memorable performances in recent years. Broadcast live on national television on the eve of Lunar New Year, the event welcomed the Year of the Fire Horse with a blend of tradition and cutting-edge technology. Millions tuned in as always for this iconic program, which holds the record as the world’s most-watched annual TV show. The robots joined young martial arts students in stunning displays that fused ancient kung fu with modern robotics. Viewers across the country and beyond found themselves captivated by the seamless coordination on stage.
Companies like Unitree Robotics took center stage with their advanced models. Unitree’s G1 and H1 humanoids executed high-speed kung fu routines, including drunken fist styles, staff sparring, and nunchuck handling. They performed alongside children from martial arts schools, matching every kick, punch, and spin with remarkable precision. The machines showcased fluid movements, quick recoveries, and perfect balance even during complex sequences. Other firms such as Noetix, MagicLab, and Galbot also presented their robots in various segments, from comedy sketches to synchronized dances.
One highlight involved dozens of Unitree G1 robots achieving the world’s first fully autonomous cluster kung fu performance. They pulled off continuous freestyle table-vaulting parkour, aerial flips reaching over three meters, single-leg flips, wall-assisted backflips, and a seven-and-a-half-rotation Airflare grand spin. These feats represented major leaps from the previous year’s simpler dance routines. The robots handled traditional weapons like swords and poles without missing a beat, impressing everyone with their dexterity and speed. In another part, a larger H2 model appeared as a sword grandmaster and even as the Monkey King, riding a cloud-like platform carried by robotic dogs.
The gala highlighted China’s rapid progress in humanoid robotics. Just one year earlier, the machines stuck to basic steps and needed more assistance. Now they demonstrated real-time adjustments, high-speed group coordination, and advanced control systems. Several models sold out quickly on platforms like JD.com right after their appearance, with prices reaching around ninety-one thousand dollars for some units. This surge in interest reflects growing excitement about embodied AI and its potential in everyday life.
Experts and viewers noted the symbolic message behind the show. By blending kung fu heritage with futuristic machines, the performances celebrated both cultural roots and technological ambition. The flawless execution in front of a live audience proved the reliability of these systems under pressure. It also sparked discussions about competition in the global robotics race, with China’s firms pushing boundaries faster than expected.
The entire spectacle left a strong impression of innovation meeting tradition. What do you think about these robotic performers blending into such a classic cultural event—share your thoughts in the comments.
