Hanyang University deep-tech startup gives robots a “human sense of touch,” takes second place in international challenge

[Financial News] A university startup in South Korea that developed a robotic tactile sensor that enables robots to grasp objects as gently and precisely as humans has demonstrated its technological prowess at an international competition.
Hanyang University ERICA announced on the 29th that its faculty-founded startup Cosmoque placed second overall in the Infineon Startup Challenge 2026, organized by global semiconductor company Infineon Technologies. The result came in a competition among around 100 venture companies from 29 countries worldwide.
The competition was organized to identify innovative technologies in physical AI, where next-generation humanoid robots and AI interact with real-world physical environments. Cosmoque earned a place among the winners with a precise technology demonstration at the final round, held on the 6th of this month in Graz, Austria.
The key to the win, “Coskin (COSKIN),” is a tactile sensor that uses changes in magnetic fields to simultaneously detect not only where a robot touches an object but also the force it applies when pressing and when sliding sideways. With the sensor attached, a robot can adjust its grip force on its own, allowing it to safely handle even fragile items such as eggs.
Led by Cosmoque CEO Jang Beom-jin, a professor in Hanyang University ERICA’s Department of Robotics Engineering, the company is based at the university’s ERICA Startup Incubation Center and is accelerating the commercialization of its technology. It is conducting joint research to apply the technology to actual robots in partnership with private companies, including silicone materials company Noroo Paint and robotic hand manufacturer Tesollo Inc.
CEO Jang Beom-jin said, “It was a meaningful occasion where we interacted with global industry experts and had our technological capabilities recognized. We will continue to advance sensor technology needed in next-generation robotics applications.”
In addition to robotic tactile sensors, Cosmoque is also developing analytical equipment for advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes. Its technological capabilities and growth potential have been recognized through its selection for programs such as Deep Tech TIPS and the Super-Gap Startup Project.  

[email protected] Kim Man-gi Reporter