YONGIN, South Korea: South Korea is expanding the use of AI-powered companion devices for elderly citizens living alone as the country grapples with rising social isolation and record levels of “lonely deaths.”
One user, 78-year-old Bang Chun-ja, lives alone in Yongin and relies on an AI-enabled doll that provides conversation, daily reminders, and emotional interaction. The device is part of a growing government-supported initiative aimed at supporting seniors with limited family contact.
Authorities in South Korea have introduced AI care tools, including interactive dolls and monitoring devices, across several regions, including parts of Seoul and surrounding municipalities. These systems are designed to provide companionship, track wellbeing indicators, and alert welfare workers in cases of emergency.
The rollout comes as South Korea faces one of the world’s lowest birth rates and a rapidly aging population. Nearly 42% of households consist of single occupants, while official data recorded more than 3,920 cases of individuals dying alone in 2024 — the highest figure since records began in 2017.
The AI devices, developed by local technology firms, include conversational systems integrated with artificial intelligence and pre-programmed behavioral scripts intended to simulate social interaction. Some models are also used in nursing homes and community care programs.
Officials and developers say the tools are intended to supplement, not replace, human care, while acknowledging concerns that increased reliance on AI companionship could further reduce direct family interaction.
The company behind one widely used device reported that approximately 14,500 units are currently in operation across South Korea through private ownership, rental programs, and institutional use.
Experts and healthcare workers involved in the program say the devices have shown positive effects in reducing loneliness and depressive symptoms among some elderly users. However, they also caution that long-term reliance on artificial companionship raises questions about social isolation and the future of eldercare.
South Korea’s government has continued to expand digital welfare programs as part of broader efforts to address demographic decline, aging population pressures, and increasing demand for elderly care services.