(Seoul – Fintech Today) Morphing I, a company developing the water pipeline inspection robot “Morphing-BOT,” is gaining significant attention in the field of water management. The robot’s ability to detect and analyze aging pipelines and leaks in real time has been recognized both domestically and internationally, accelerating its global expansion.
Morphing-BOT began development in 2021 after being selected for a KRW 2 billion R&D project led by the Korea Agency for Infrastructure Technology Advancement (KAIA) under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, using technology transferred from Seoul National University. After nearly three years of research, the robot was completed, boasting differentiated technology compared to existing water management methods. Successful pilot tests have been conducted with major municipalities across the country.
The aging of water pipelines and leaks have been identified as one of the causes of frequent sinkhole occurrences, emphasizing the importance of monitoring pipeline conditions to prevent such incidents. Morphing-BOT plays a crucial role in addressing these issues by inspecting the interior of water pipelines in real time, allowing municipalities to detect potential sinkhole risks early and take preventive measures. This capability helps prevent loss of life and property, earning trust from various municipalities and related companies.
In 2023, Morphing I secured a KRW 1.7 billion project from the National Information Society Agency (NIA) under the Ministry of Science and ICT. The company successfully completed pilot tests in collaboration with Jeju Island, Jeonju, Siheung, and Jindo County. During this process, Morphing I also developed an AI-based anomaly prediction model, significantly improving the efficiency of water management.
Morphing I has also achieved success in the global market. After being selected as part of the “Super Gap Startup+1000” by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups in 2024, the company has actively attracted investment to enhance its technology and enter global markets. It gained international recognition by winning first place in the AI/Robotics Pitch Battle at IFA 2024 in Berlin, Germany.
The company is now expanding into countries such as Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Japan, and the United States. In Germany, Morphing I is accelerating its market entry by building partnerships with local investors based on its success at IFA 2024. In Vietnam, the company has signed MOUs with local enterprises to promote AI-powered water management solutions.
Ki-young Kim, CEO of Morphing I, stated, “Morphing-BOT presents a new standard for water management and will be an essential solution for municipalities and related companies. It will play a significant role in preventing ground subsidence in advance.”
Morphing I plans to continue its efforts in research and development and strengthen global partnerships to provide AI-driven innovative water management solutions to the global market, contributing to urban safety and environmental improvement.
Source: Fintech Today (http://www.fintechtoday.co.kr)
