South Korean researchers develop AI and BCI platforms for elderly mental health

South Korean research institutions have been selected for the ‘Korean ARPA-H’ project, a high-risk, high-reward initiative aimed at addressing mental health challenges in an aging society. The project, titled ‘BCI-INSIDE-OUT’, focuses on developing a non-disruptive precision care platform for elderly mental health using Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology.

Gachon University is leading a research effort to develop a multimodal foundation model. This system will integrate EEG, acoustic, and biometric data—such as sleep and activity levels—to continuously monitor depression in the elderly. The project includes developing portable, low-channel EEG devices for home use to bridge the gap between hospital measurements and daily life. This research is scheduled to run through 2030 with a total government investment of 18 billion won.

Simultaneously, Samsung Medical Center has been selected to lead the ‘AI Caregivers’ sub-project. Their research aims to build the world’s first multimodal AI foundation model specifically for elderly mental health (EMH-MFM). This platform will utilize a closed-loop system to provide real-time interventions, including biofeedback, digital therapeutics, and AI care robots, transitioning elderly mental health management from reactive treatment to proactive prevention.