In Beijing, humanoid robots showcased their talents at the inaugural World Humanoid Robot Games. The opening ceremony saw these robots dance hip-hop, perform martial arts, and play various musical instruments such as the keyboard, guitar, and drums.

More than 500 robots from 280 teams across 16 countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan, will compete starting Friday. They will engage in sports like soccer, running, and boxing. This event highlights China’s increased focus on developing AI-powered humanoid robots.

A robot was seen rehearsing for the 100m race before the opening ceremony. During the ceremony, robots demonstrated skills in soccer and boxing, with some executing backflips and cheering, resembling a real sporting event. One robot soccer player managed to score a goal after a few attempts, resulting in the goalkeeper robot dramatically falling to the ground. Another player stumbled but quickly regained its footing without assistance.

The robots also participated in a fashion show, modeling hats and clothing alongside human models. One robot model, however, experienced a fall and required assistance from two humans to leave the stage. Additionally, a human performer leaped over robots dressed as terracotta warriors, adding to the spectacle of the ceremony.

Participants in the games include teams from leading robot companies and esteemed Chinese universities such as Tsinghua University and Peking University. Three middle schools also joined the competition. Reflecting on the significance of the event, a Beijing government officer highlighted in the People’s Daily that each robot involved is “creating history.”

The games will last three days, concluding on Sunday. Ticket prices for the event are set between 180 yuan ($25) and 580 yuan ($80), making it accessible to the public.