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About

Heesun Shin is a leading researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction, gerontechnology, and social welfare, with a specific focus on addressing the challenges of an aging society in South Korea. Her work critically examines how companion robots like Silbot and Hyodol are deployed to combat social isolation and depression among older adults living alone. Shin’s major contribution lies in revealing the essential, often invisible, role of human mediators—such as social workers and instructors—in making robotic eldercare programs effective. Her studies, including “Talking over the robot” and “Who is behind the robot?,” demonstrate that successful implementation relies on a “strained collaboration” between technology and human care, challenging the notion of fully autonomous care. With over 40 citations across her most-cited works, Shin’s research has significant impact, particularly her 2024 papers on the “Robotic Multi-Care Network” and social workers’ perspectives, which provide actionable insights for policymakers and designers. Her work is notable for its ethnographic depth and its advocacy for a human-centered approach to AI in social care, making her a vital voice in debates on technology, ethics, and aging.