South Korean cities advance AI integration in elderly care and regional development

Naju City is launching a pilot program called ‘AI CareLink’ starting in September to address the challenges of an aging society and caregiver shortages. The system uses a digital platform to connect the municipality, care providers, elderly users, and their families. The platform features four specialized apps that allow for real-time monitoring, emergency SOS responses, and AI-driven voice services. These services include providing reminders for medication, vaccinations, and weather updates, as well as offering emotional support through conversational AI.

In a related development regarding AI integration, the Gwangju National Science Museum is hosting the ‘2026 AI Roundtable.’ Supported by the National Information Society Agency (NIA), the event aims to discuss how artificial intelligence can solve regional issues. The program includes expert forums, lectures on human roles in the AI era, and interactive experiences for citizens and youth, such as AI career mentoring and an AI-themed escape room.