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South Korea is testing talking dolls that use ChatGPT to keep older people company as the country faces growing pressure on its care system.
In short: South Korea is turning to AI-powered talking dolls to help reduce loneliness among older people as its social care system comes under strain.
South Korea has a fast-growing older population, and there are not enough caregivers to meet demand. As a result, some local programs are testing devices that can talk with people at home, including dolls designed to feel friendly and familiar.
These dolls use ChatGPT, which is a type of AI chatbot (software that talks with you in written or spoken words). You can think of it like a conversation partner that is always available, similar to having a radio host who can respond to what you say instead of just talking at you.
The goal is not to replace nurses or family members. It is to provide simple companionship, reminders, and daily conversation for people who might spend long periods alone. For some older adults, especially those with limited mobility, even small amounts of regular interaction can make days feel less isolating.
It will matter how these trials are judged, including whether older people actually enjoy using the dolls, and whether they lead to measurable improvements in mood or wellbeing. Privacy is another key issue. Devices like this may need to listen for speech to work well, so families and governments will likely ask what data is recorded, who can see it, and how long it is kept.
Source: Financial Times