[Instagram Walk] LoungeX - Drip Coffee by Robot Barista, How Is the 'Hand Taste'?

Among 7 Branches Nationwide, Visiting Gangnam Branch
Upon Order, Collaborative Robot 'Baris'
Uses AI Hand-Drip Algorithm
Finely Adjusts According to Coffee Bean Characteristics
Brew the Finest Specialty Coffee
Directly Shows Analog Process

Humans Interact with Customers
Providing an Environment to Maximize Creativity

The LoungeX AI barista 'Baris' in operation. / Photo by Juhyung Lim @skepped

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Juhyung] It has already been a year since the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) began spreading worldwide. Each country is increasingly relying on contactless technologies to adapt to social distancing measures aimed at preventing virus transmission. The rapid adoption of new technologies summarized as remote and automation raises concerns that it may eliminate existing jobs, ultimately alienating and impoverishing humans.

Is there truly no way for new technologies to harmoniously integrate into human society? Surprisingly, a small startup has drawn attention by stepping up to tackle the complex and arduous challenge of 'human-machine collaboration.' The caf? 'Lounge X,' where a robot barista brews coffee directly, is the protagonist.

Lounge X is a caf? operated by the retail tech company 'Lounge Lab.' Using AI robots developed by Lounge Lab, it makes coffee and sells it to customers.

The Lounge X Gangnam branch, located in the basement of Gangnam N Tower near Yeoksam Station in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, is one of seven branches nationwide. Upon entering the caf?, the clean and luxurious interior and the barista robot, nicknamed 'Baris,' positioned under blue LED lighting immediately catch the eye.

Interior view of LoungeX Seoul Gangnam branch. / Photo by Juhyung Lim @skepped

Baris is what Lounge X proudly calls a 'collaborative robot,' working alongside human baristas. In particular, Baris can brew the finest specialty coffee by applying a finely tuned AI hand-drip algorithm designed by Lounge Lab, which adjusts precisely according to the characteristics of the coffee beans.

Hwang Seongjae, CEO of Lounge Lab and developer of Baris, summarized several reasons for opening a caf? where robot baristas work. First, it is to actively respond to changes in the main consumer demographic. He explained, "As the MZ generation has emerged as a new consumer group, I felt that changes were needed in the retail industry."

Additionally, there is the goal of improving work realities by integrating new technologies. CEO Hwang said, "Technologies like robotics and AI have limitations if they remain only on research desks and are merely studied or used there," adding, "I chose a caf? to apply these technologies in frontline work environments to practically deliver convenience and enjoyment to consumers."

When a 'robot drip coffee' is ordered, Baris immediately begins the process in front of the customer. Customers can enjoy watching the robotic arm move with precision, without the slightest error, as it brews the coffee.

LoungeX Hand Drip Robot 'Baris' / Photo by Juhyung Lim @skepped

CEO Hwang emphasized, "Most robot caf?s or robot coffee machines are closer to vending machines that make coffee out of sight and deliver it to customers," and "In contrast, Baris operates in the same space as the user, directly demonstrating the analog process of hand-drip coffee and interacting with customers."

Lounge X focuses on realizing the potential of an industry where 'robots and humans collaborate,' beyond simply being a 'caf? where robots make coffee.' Baris performs complex tasks, allowing human baristas to engage in more productive work.

He explained, "Traditionally, skilled baristas spend about 3 to 5 minutes hand-dripping coffee, but with Baris handling this process, baristas gain time," adding, "During that time, baristas can connect with customers or try new tasks." This provides an environment that maximizes creativity by freeing workers from simple repetitive tasks.

Lounge X plans to focus on automating retail businesses, including caf?s, by utilizing robotic technology. Beyond the currently operating hand-drip coffee robot Baris, they are developing 'Baris Espresso,' a robot capable of pulling espresso shots, and 'Baris Can,' which can directly sell simple beverage menus to consumers.

CEO Hwang said, "Technology can resolve many inconveniences experienced by those working in retail," and "The role of technology is to provide better service in more convenient spaces." He emphasized, "Thanks to such technology, human society becomes more convenient and affluent, and culturally meaningful roles are fulfilled. Paradoxically, I believe advanced technology can be an excellent tool for the grand vision of 'restoring humanity.'"