Anyang City to deploy AI patrol robots in Jungang Market

Anyang City will deploy six physical AI patrol robots to Jungang Market starting next month to enhance safety management in the traditional market. The initiative is part of the ‘2026 Physical AI Robot Demonstration Project’ led by the Korea Institute for Robot Industry Advancement.

The robots will utilize autonomous driving, cameras, and sensors to perform various tasks during nighttime and early morning hours when shops are closed. Key responsibilities include crime prevention, detecting fire hazards such as smoke, flames, or abnormal temperature rises, and searching for missing persons. Additionally, the robots will identify obstacles blocking fire lanes and coordinate with merchant associations to ensure clear access for emergency services.

Data from the robots will be monitored 24/7 by the Anyang Smart City Integrated Control Center, which will relay emergency information to police and fire departments. The project, funded with a total of 625 million KRW, will undergo pilot testing through the end of the year. Following functional enhancements, full-scale operations are expected to run from January 2027 through 2029.