Robot Throws Itself Down the Stairs in South Korea: First Robot Suicide Case in the World

In an unexpected and somber event, South Korea’s Gumi City Council reported the untimely demise of their first administrative officer robot, which was found defunct after apparently throwing itself down a staircase. 

The incident, which took place last week, has left local media and residents alike grappling with the notion of what is being referred to as the world’s first robot suicide.

The robot, a product of Bear Robotics, a Californian startup known for its innovative robot-waiter designs, had been appointed in August 2023. 

This pioneering machine was more than just a piece of technology; it was an integral part of the city hall’s daily operations. 

It diligently assisted with document deliveries, city promotion, and provided information to local residents. 

Its ability to navigate multiple floors by calling elevators independently set it apart from other robots, underscoring its advanced capabilities and importance within the council.

However, the circumstances surrounding its demise are both perplexing and tragic.

 Witnesses recounted seeing the robot “circling in one spot as if something was there” shortly before it plummeted down the two-meter (six-and-a-half foot) staircase. 

The exact cause of the fall remains under investigation, with officials collecting and analyzing pieces of the robot to understand what went wrong. 

Local media have been abuzz with headlines pondering the incident, with poignant questions such as “Why did the diligent civil officer do it?” and “Was work too hard for the robot?” reflecting a mix of shock and sadness over the loss of what had become a valued member of the city hall team. 

Despite being a machine, the robot was embraced by the council and the community, earning its own civil service officer card and working a full schedule from 9 am to 6 pm daily.

South Korea, known for its fervent adoption and integration of robots into various sectors, boasts the highest robot density in the world. 

According to the International Federation of Robotics, the country has one industrial robot for every ten employees, illustrating its commitment to robotic advancements. 

Yet, this incident highlights an unforeseen aspect of robot-human interaction, raising questions about the psychological and operational stresses that even advanced robots might face.

In light of this event, the Gumi City Council has decided not to adopt a second robot officer for the time being, allowing a period of reflection and investigation into what led to the robot’s tragic end. 

The city mourns the loss of its dedicated robot officer, a symbol of technological progress and community service.

This incident not only marks a significant moment in the history of robotics but also serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges that come with integrating advanced technology into our daily lives. 

As the world watches, South Korea continues to lead in robot innovation, even as it navigates the uncharted territories of robotic well-being and functionality.