A robot navigation system using the pattern recognition of figures drawn by a laser pointer has been proposed. Typical figures are registered and assigned to individual robot commands. Each figure is identified based on the feature of its edges. This system detects trace of laser beam and calculates its optical flow vectors. Each figure has its own characteristic distribution pattern of vector inclinations. By evaluating the optical flow pattern of displayed laser spot, the system distinguishes the shape of a laser beam trace and provides the command to a robot corresponding to the drawn figure. The proposed system has been applied to the mobile robot, and shows its effectiveness by steering successfully.