Swedish minister observes Hyodol's AI-based elderly care robot

Anna Tenje at Hyodol event Courtesy of Hyodol — Sweden's Minister for Older People and Social Security Anna Tenje (center) poses for a photo during her visit to the Gungdong Community Welfare Center in Seoul on Sept. 30, 2024. Courtesy of Hyodol

SEOUL, October 14 (AJP) – Sweden's Minister for Older People and Social Security Anna Tenje recently visited a community welfare center in Seoul to observe an artificial intelligence-based care robot developed by Hyodol.

Her visit aimed to understand Korea's approach to AI technology in elderly care as the country prepares for an aging society, the company said.

During the event at the Gungdong Community Welfare Center on Sept. 30, Hyodol's CEO, Kim Ji-hee, explained that the robot, named Hyodol, is the first emotion-based robot designed to provide both health and mental care for the elderly. It has been developed in collaboration with Microsoft.

The welfare center demonstrated Hyodol's emergency response capabilities and highlighted its role in fostering intergenerational connections through cultural activities.

The robot has shown positive results in managing daily routines and improving mental health, as evidenced by research conducted with various universities and institutions.

Hyodol is currently used by approximately 10,000 elderly individuals in Korea, and the company aims to expand into the Northern European market.

Candice Kim candicekim1121@ajupress.com