South Korea retailers deploy robots to reshape shopping experience

April 20 (Asia Today) -- South Korea's retail industry is increasingly adopting robots to transform the shopping experience, as advances in artificial intelligence and rising demand for assistive technologies drive new forms of consumer engagement.

According to industry officials Monday, Lotte Shopping is promoting an AI-powered wearable robot called HyperShell through its e-commerce platform Lotte On through Saturday.

Developed by VD Robotics, the device is designed to support lower-body movement by distributing weight during walking and climbing stairs, reducing strain on muscles.

The flagship model weighs about 1.8 kilograms and can travel up to 30 kilometers on a single battery charge. Company employees recently tested the device by completing a stair climb equivalent to 123 floors at Lotte World Tower.

Lotte On has also launched a dedicated AI robot category to expand its lineup of advanced technology products, following the release of a robot capable of playing the board game Go earlier this year.

Offline retailers are adopting similar strategies. Electro Mart has opened a robot experience zone at its Yongsan flagship store, where visitors can test humanoid and quadruped robots and receive on-site consultations.

The store also features an integrated "smart robot zone," where an AI barista and delivery robots demonstrate the full process from ordering to preparation and delivery.

Industry observers say the expansion of robot-based experiences reflects a broader shift beyond traditional retail, as companies seek to attract customers through interactive and immersive services.

By offering hands-on access to emerging technologies, retailers aim to increase customer engagement and encourage purchases, while differentiating their stores from competitors.

Analysts say the trend could accelerate the adoption of robots as everyday consumer products, as more users become familiar with their functionality through direct experience.

-- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260420010006233

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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 4:51 PM.