Dancing robots: China stuns the world with a futuristic show 🤖

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What if robots became the new stars of the global stage? Since the “WuboT” Lunar New Year show on February 16, China has been captivating the world with dancing robots pushing the limits of what’s possible.

China at the forefront of technological culture 🤖

Nearly 700 million viewers were captivated by around thirty Unitree humanoid robots during the “WuboT” performance. At a time when global powers are competing fiercely in robotics innovation, China has once again showcased its strength.

Models like the G5 and H2 performed stunning routines—nunchaku sequences, backflips, and parkour moves—within a choreographed combat performance alongside students from the Tagou kung fu school. This show, now one of the largest in the world, celebrates Chinese culture in a landscape shaped by geopolitical competition.

“WuboT”: between innovation and economic power 📈

According to the UN, China’s population is expected to decline to 1.26 billion by 2050, with 40% over the age of 60. By 2100, the trend could deepen, with only 8% under 15 years old, bringing the population down to an estimated 633 million.

These innovative robots are already anticipating the country’s demographic challenges, in a context where geopolitical rivalry is pushing nations to explore new frontiers—including space.

On the economic front, the relatively low production cost of robots allows Beijing to expand its technological influence. According to Forbes, a Unitree G1 costs around $16,000, and multiple batches have already sold out on JD.com, an e-commerce platform.

Chinese robotics is estimated to account for nearly 90% of global sales. After selling 5,500 units in 2025, projections point to 20,000 units in 2026, with an estimated valuation of $7 billion on Shanghai’s STAR Market.

Other major players include Huawei (5,168 units valued at $6.4 billion), Fourier in the healthcare sector, and over a hundred specialized companies.

The global humanoid robot market is projected to reach $38 billion by 2035, up from just $1.3 billion in 2024, according to Grand View Research.

How does it work? ⏳

China shows no signs of slowing down in robot manufacturing. Engineers are celebrating their progress. One of them explains:

“The robot’s left hand firmly holds the stick, while the other grabs it. In just one second, it completes three steps: grabbing, lifting, and handling it. All at an incredible speed. It’s technically very challenging, but we’ve done it. It’s a major breakthrough.”

Despite growing foreign competition—especially from Tesla—China still holds a central position in the global robotics industry.

And you—can you imagine yourself dancing live on TV alongside robots?