#. The space companion robot 'Laika' is a partner robot designed to support astronauts' health management. It monitors the user's physical condition using health data and is equipped with cameras and sensors, enabling emotional interaction. Created for astronauts participating in lunar exploration, Laika was also selected as one of Designboom's '2023 AI Best Design 10'.
Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into the design industry. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, it enables interactive communication with users and provides hyper-personalized, customized services. 'Design Korea,' an event where you can get a glimpse of these future design trends, will be held for five days starting from the 13th.
Over 400 Companies and Institutions Participate... This Year's Theme is AI
Design Korea is the largest design industry exhibition in Korea, hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and organized by the Korea Institute of Design Promotion.
This event, held at COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul, features more than 400 companies and institutions, including major corporations such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, and Hyundai Motor, as well as design-specialized companies and young designers, presenting over 600 pieces of content.
Visitors at Design Korea 2024 are examining an exhibition featuring spoons. Photo by Yonhap News
원본보기 아이콘Especially since this year's theme is 'How AI Moves Our Daily Lives,' design products incorporating AI technology have attracted attention. Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Ring and the latest foldable smartphones equipped with AI features greet visitors first. LG Electronics introduced its robot butler Q9, which acts as a futuristic smart home hub, connecting and controlling home appliances and IoT devices. It also serves as a butler by reading books to children and managing schedules. The design was inspired by the focused expression of a child wearing a headset.
LG Household & Health Care exhibited the portable tattoo printer 'Imprintu.' It provides users with tattoo designs created by learning from 350 million image data, allowing for unique and creative works.
In addition, Hyundai Motor unveiled the personalized mobility service 'DICE,' Neubility presented the delivery robot 'Neubi' that recognizes obstacles, and Level9 showcased the interactive media 'Goemuljeongwon,' which combines plants and AI, captivating visitors.
Visitors attending Design Korea 2024 are examining Hyundai Motor Company's personal mobility device, 'Dice.' Photo by Yonhap News
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In the design industry, AI is a 'double-edged sword.' While it automates parts of the work to increase productivity, it also raises concerns about job losses for designers. In response, Yoon Sanghoom, President of the Korea Institute of Design Promotion, stated, "We will continue to provide various policy support to ensure the sustainable growth of the design industry in the AI era."
On the 14th, an international conference will be held with experts from Google, Adobe, LG Electronics, KAIST, and others. The event will explore future trends emerging with new AI technologies and discuss the direction and role of design businesses.
Side Events: Introduction of Government Projects, Youth Employment Support, and More
Responding to the climate crisis is also a key pillar of the design industry. At this event, eco-friendly design companies that create products using recycled materials also stood out. Participants included 'Paperus,' which makes coasters and phone stands from discarded business cards and flyers; 'TwoforTwo,' which upcycles waste leather into bags; and 'Geologic,' which creates objects from discarded plywood and concrete from construction sites.
Visitors attending Design Korea 2024 are examining the Samsung Card booth. Photo by Yonhap News
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At the 'Government Support Achievements Hall,' design products launched through various government projects, such as the Design-Led Manufacturing Innovation Project, were also showcased. In addition, there will be company presentations (IR pitching) to support buyer matching and investment attraction for outstanding domestic design companies, as well as consulting and job fairs for young designers with mentors.
Yoon Sanghoom, President of the Korea Institute of Design Promotion, said, "This year's Design Korea, held in conjunction with the 'Seoul Design Festival,' offers an even richer and more diverse array of attractions."
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Reporter Kim Bokyung bkly477@asiae.co.kr
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Edit Park Chunghun parkjovi@asiae.co.kr
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