China showcased humanoid robots in the main New Year show, demonstrating their kung‑fu.

Gala concert for the Chinese New Year: people and robots in a unified performance

*Event date:* February 16, 2026, evening before the start of the lunar year, which begins on February 17.

*Organizer and broadcast:* China Media Corporation organized the event, which was shown worldwide via CGTN and other international channels.

What happened on stage
- Synergy of traditions and technology. The stage combines classic Chinese martial arts with modern robotics solutions.

- Participants in the performance. Among the people are young kung‑fu masters, and among the robots are humanoids model G1 from Unitree Robotics. Both types of participants work synchronously.

- Choreography. The opening of the act is characterized by slow and smooth movements that gradually transition into faster and more intense scenes. The climax involves the use of traditional weapons: swords, staffs, and nunchaku, which heightens the spectacle.

- Technical implementation. The robots demonstrate smooth coordination, handling weapons carefully and closely interacting with human performers. The entire act proceeds without noticeable errors.

Audience reaction
- Positive reviews. On Reddit many users note the high level of technical preparation and impressive synchronization between robots and humans.

- Criticism. Some forum participants doubt the degree of autonomy of the humanoids, pointing to the possibility of a preprogrammed scenario or motion capture instead of real decision-making.

Thus, the gala concert became a vivid example of how modern technology can harmoniously fit into cultural traditions while simultaneously sparking discussions about the limits of robot autonomy.