China's Humanoid Robots Stun the World with Lightning-Fast Evolution at Spring
festival Gala
Beijing, february 16, 2026 – A viral tweet by Chinese journalist Li Zexin (@XH_Lee23) has ignited global fascination and concern, showcasing the breathtaking pace of China's humanoid robotics advancements. The post, accompanied by a comparison video from state broadcaster CCTV, contrasts robot performances at the 2025 and 2026 Chinese Spring festival Galas.
In 2025, black humanoid robots in festive
red vests delivered stiff but impressive synchronized dances. Just one year later, in 2026, vastly improved models executed complex kung fu routines with fluid, human-like precision—complete with traditional outfits, dynamic poses, and seamless coordination that blurs the line between machine and performer.
"You can’t imagine how fast Chinese humanoid robots are evolving," Zexin wrote. "In just one year, they have evolved from robots to 'humans'."The tweet, amassing over 1.8 million views, highlights China's dominance in robotics, fueled by heavy investment and rapid innovation. While celebrated domestically as a technological triumph, it has sparked international debate about job displacement in entertainment and the ethical implications of near-indistinguishable humanoids. As replies flood with awe and memes, one thing is clear: China's robot revolution is accelerating faster than anyone anticipated.