Seoul, South Korea — Apicoo Robotics, a Hanoi-born robotics startup founded in 2021, is advancing the future of intuitive automation through its smart gripper technology. With a strong focus on collaborative robots (cobots) in high-mix, low-volume production environments, Apicoo is building robotic tools that are powerful, user-friendly, and accessible to non-experts — a rare combination in industrial automation.
“Most companies wouldn’t allow the kind of extended development and iteration time I believe is necessary for robotics,” said founder and CEO Vo Gia Loc. “That’s why I founded Apicoo Robotics — to create an environment where we could take the time needed to develop high-quality, long-term robotics solutions.”
Apicoo’s flagship product, SusGrip, is a hybrid gripper that blends the advantages of parallel and scissor-style mechanisms. Measuring just 118mm in length with a grip span of 128mm, SusGrip offers one of the best reach-to-size ratios on the market. It features intuitive parallel motion, plug-and-play connectivity, a GUI-based integration interface, and high safety standards — making it an ideal solution for small and mid-sized manufacturers.
“We see enormous potential in Korean industries like electronics, automotive, and logistics,” Vo noted. “Our next step is expanding into e-commerce fulfillment centers with our smart picking systems.”
Apicoo Robotics gained early traction after being selected as a Top 20 startup in the 2023 K-Startup Grand Challenge, which led to a collaboration opportunity with Samsung C-Lab. This milestone catalyzed the company’s formal entry into the Korean market.
“Korea offers an incredibly friendly ecosystem for foreign founders — both administratively and financially,” Vo said. “It’s growing fast as a global hub for advanced technology, and given our existing network and proximity from Vietnam, it was a strategic choice as our global testing ground.” Looking beyond manufacturing, Vo envisions entering the service robotics sector, especially in elder care and healthcare. “We want to build robots that help people age independently and live with dignity,” he said.
For aspiring foreign entrepreneurs, Vo shared this message: “Korea is safe, dynamic, and full of energy. If you’re serious about tech entrepreneurship, the support system here is truly outstanding — it’s absolutely worth a shot.”
Website: https://apicoorobotics.com
