#South Korea #Hyundai Motor Group #Firefighting Robots #Korea National Fire Agency #Namyangju

Hyundai Motor Group Partners with Fire Agency to Enhance Firefighter Safety

Hyundai Motor Group has taken a formidable step towards improving firefighter safety by donating four state-of-the-art Unmanned Firefighting Robots to the Korea National Fire Agency (KNFA). This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to firefighters in high-risk situations, marking a significant advancement in emergency response technology.

Enhancing Safety in Firefighting Operations

On February 24, 2026, a ceremonial event was held at the National 119 Rescue Headquarters in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province, where this generous donation was made. Executive Chair Euisun Chung emphasized the company's commitment to equipping firefighters with the necessary tools to carry out their life-saving missions more effectively and safely. He stated, "These robots reflect our core values of safety and innovation, embodying our mission to create technology that saves lives."

The robots are built on Hyundai Rotem's HR-Sherpa platform, an electrified multi-purpose unmanned vehicle specifically engineered for emergency situations. They feature advanced capabilities tailored for firefighting efforts, making them invaluable assets in operations where traditional methods may fall short.

Features and Functions of the Robots

The Unmanned Firefighting Robots come equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance their functionality:

• - Water Cannon: This device is strategically mounted at the front, providing versatile water dispersion techniques suitable for various fire types.
• - Self-Spraying System: Constantly disperses coolant around the robot to maintain a safe operating temperature, even in extreme heat situations, effectively shielding the unit from flames.
• - Vision-Enhancing Camera: An infrared camera that enables precise detection of objects through smoke and flames, allowing teams to locate fires and rescue efforts quickly.
• - Remote Operation: Real-time video feeds help operators control the robot's navigation and firefighting tasks seamlessly.
• - All-Terrain Mobility: With specially designed tires and an independent drive system, these robots can navigate challenging terrains common in fire situations.

Currently, two of the donated robots have been deployed in live operations within the Capital and Yeongnam regions, with plans for two more to support Gyeonggi and Chungnam Provincial Fire Headquarters shortly.

A Commitment to Firefighter Health

Hyundai Motor Group is also committed to the health and recovery of firefighters. In June, coinciding with the opening of South Korea’s first National Fire Hospital, the company will provide essential supplies and equipment to assist the rehabilitation of injured firefighters. This reinforces Hyundai's dedication not only to public safety through technology but also to the well-being of those who risk their lives daily.

Shaping the Future of Disaster Response

Acting Commissioner Seung-ryong Kim of the Korea National Fire Agency remarked that this collaboration signals a transformative approach in disaster response. The introduction of Unmanned Firefighting Robots marks the beginning of an era defined by innovative partnerships between public agencies and leading tech companies like Hyundai. "We are determined to push the boundaries of safety and efficiency in firefighting through the integration of advanced technology, ensuring that our emergency response capabilities evolve in line with modern challenges," Kim stated.

Conclusion

The partnership between Hyundai Motor Group and the Korea National Fire Agency symbolizes a forward-thinking approach to firefighting. By combining technology with the noble cause of protecting lives, they are not only safeguarding firefighters but also redefining how society responds to fire emergencies. As these robots become operational in the field, we can expect a marked improvement in safety measures and incident responses, paving the way for a future where innovation plays a crucial role in protecting lives.