"End of Direct Overseas Purchase"... LG's 'Electronic Mask' Sees the Light After Two and a Half Years

'LG PuriCare Mask' Launched Domestically
Released After Two and a Half Years Due to Regulations
Features Built-in Microphone, Speaker, and IPX4 Waterproof Rating

LG Electronics launched a new concept electronic mask, the 'LG PuriCare Mask,' on the 8th. The new product is the first in Korea to receive EM (Electronic Mask) certification from the Korea Air Cleaning Association and offers comfortable wear with an ergonomic design and silicone material that minimizes skin irritation.
[Photo by LG Electronics]

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Yeju] LG Electronics' electronic mask, the 'LG PuriCare Mask,' which attracted domestic and international attention with innovative technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, is finally being launched.

LG Electronics announced on the 8th that after introducing the electronic mask in a total of 23 countries including Hong Kong last year, and Taiwan, Vietnam, and Spain this year, it will now officially launch the product domestically.

Until now, the release was delayed domestically due to the absence of safety standards for electronic masks. LG Electronics applied for a regulatory sandbox last year, and the National Institute of Technology and Standards established the 'Preliminary Safety Standards for Electronic Masks.' The new product is a certified industrial electronic mask that has passed these standards and can be used indoors and outdoors as a substitute for regular masks according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's 'Mask Wearing Quarantine Guideline Compliance Order and Fine Imposition Work Manual.'

This product is the first in Korea to receive EM (Electrical Mask) certification from the Korea Air Cleaning Association. The Korea Air Cleaning Association evaluated and certified the product based on ▲'Leakage Rate,' which indicates how much air leaks inside the mask when worn ▲'Inhalation Resistance,' measuring the pressure difference inside and outside the mask ▲'Filter Performance,' filtering particles sized 0.02~2㎛ (μm) (sodium chloride) ▲and noise levels.

LG Electronics designed the PuriCare Mask with an ergonomic design tailored to facial structure to provide comfortable wear and minimize air leakage around the nose and chin. Additionally, for customers with sensitive skin, medical-grade silicone material that minimizes skin irritation is applied to the 'Face Guard,' the part of the mask that touches the face. The face guard is replaceable if necessary.

The LG PuriCare Mask has fans on both the left and right sides through which air passes. A breathing sensor that detects inhalation and exhalation automatically adjusts the speed of the two fans according to the breathing volume during exercise, controlling the amount of air entering the mask. It also features a high-performance filter, making it useful not only indoors but also for light outdoor activities such as exercise. According to tests conducted by the Korea Conformity Laboratories (KCL), this filter removes 99.999% of particles sized 0.01㎛. The filter should be replaced once a month.

The mask is equipped with a built-in microphone and speaker, allowing users to have smooth conversations with others without lowering the mask or raising their voice. Customers can also use the LG ThinQ app to check battery levels and filter replacement timing. It has an IPX4-rated water resistance performance, so there is no worry about sweat or water splashes during exercise.

The LG PuriCare Mask can be used for up to 8 hours after a full 2-hour charge via a USB-C type port or charging case. The product weighs 123g including accessories, roughly the weight of two eggs, and is available in Creamy White and Ocean Black colors. LG Electronics made the product packaging box from unbleached paper to increase resource recycling rates.

The separately sold sterilizing charging case features UVnano functionality, emitting six UV (ultraviolet) LEDs toward the mask surface and face guard. This sterilizes 99.99% of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli on the exposed surfaces. In addition to the mask, frequently used items such as smartphones can also be hygienically managed where the UV LEDs reach.

The new product is priced at 199,000 KRW for the mask and 149,000 KRW for the case. Customers who purchase both the mask and case together by the end of this month will receive a discount of 49,000 KRW. The new product can only be purchased through the LG Electronics online brand shop.

Lee Jaesung, Vice President and Head of Air Solution Business at LG Electronics H&A Division, said, "The new concept electronic mask, completed based on unparalleled technology, will provide a differentiated customer experience."