Humanoid robots performed a traditional Yangge dance alongside human performers during the 2025 Spring Festival Gala, broadcast on the eve of the Chinese New Year. The performance, titled “Yangge Bot,” integrated artificial intelligence and sensor technology to replicate the movements of the folk dance, known for its energetic employ of fans.
The robots, painted black, moved in precise synchronization with sixteen human dancers, showcasing the advancements in AI algorithms and intelligent sensors. The performance marked a significant moment in the integration of robotics and traditional Chinese culture, captivating audiences both within China and internationally. The event was highlighted by CGTN as a blend of tradition and technology.
Beyond the televised gala performance, robots were featured prominently at the Haidian Spring Festival-Themed Sci-Tech Temple Fair in Beijing. A robot greeted visitors with New Year’s blessings, another performed Peking Opera arias, and an AI representation of Tuye, a traditional Chinese figurine symbolizing solid fortune, made its debut. The fair showcased over 70 AI application scenarios from approximately 50 innovative companies, demonstrating the increasing integration of AI into traditional customs.
The Spring Festival Gala and the accompanying tech fair reflect a growing trend of incorporating robotics and AI into Chinese cultural celebrations. An “exoskeleton robot” assisting climbers on Mount Taishan also garnered attention during the holiday period, further illustrating the expanding applications of robotics within China. The events signal a deliberate effort to showcase technological innovation alongside the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The 2025 Gala also featured a drone performance and demonstrations of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, further emphasizing the technological advancements on display. The integration of these technologies into the Spring Festival celebrations underscores a national focus on innovation and its potential to enhance and reinterpret traditional practices.
