Jung-gu Adds Human Touch to IoT to Prevent Solitary Deaths

Jung-gu, Seoul (Mayor Kim Gil-seong) is promoting the ‘Smart Plug Support Project’ that checks on residents using Internet of Things (IOT) devices to prevent solitary deaths.

The IOT devices installed by the district include three types: smart plugs that monitor the power consumption of home appliances to check on residents, an SOS voice care service that recognizes voice commands like “Help me” to alert emergency situations, and an SOS emergency button that can be pressed to signal a crisis when suddenly ill.

Previously used IOT devices operated only after an emergency had already occurred, making prevention difficult. This project, the first of its kind among Seoul’s autonomous districts, adds the SOS voice care and emergency button features, enabling emergency dispatch within the golden time.

The project targets 73 households identified based on the results of this year’s single-person household survey, which indicated a high risk of solitary death. Income level is not considered. Elderly care households and disabled care households, which are socially isolated and have difficulty responding to emergencies, are also included.

Smart plugs will be installed in all target households, while for the voice care service and emergency button, the device preferred by the recipient will be installed.

Single-person households at risk of isolation who need safety checks can apply by visiting their local community service center. Support is provided starting with households at highest risk of solitary death and continues until devices are exhausted.

These ‘smart’ devices collect various signs of emergency and send them to an integrated control system. When a danger signal is received, the control center contacts the individual on weekdays, and on nights or holidays, the welfare foundation calls directly to check on them. If contact cannot be made, the community service center and welfare foundation visit the individual’s home. If medical support or emergency relief is deemed necessary, appropriate assistance such as emergency dispatch or customized welfare services is arranged.

The budget required for device installation and operation, totaling 13.18 million KRW, is fully funded by the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Kim Gil-seong, Mayor of Jung-gu, said, “When artificial intelligence is combined with human care, more meticulous welfare services can be provided. To prevent lonely deaths without anyone to care, Jung-gu will take better care of residents’ well-being.”