SunKyoung Kim
Papers
5
Total Citations
26
H-Index
2
About
SunKyoung Kim is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction and assistive technology, with a primary focus on developing socially assistive robots for vulnerable populations. Her work centers on three key areas: robot-mediated therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), inclusive robotics for visually impaired individuals, and the psychological mechanisms underlying human-robot bonding. Kim’s most impactful contribution is her 2021 study on smile analysis in robot-assisted therapy for children with ASD, which demonstrated that children’s smiles can signal prosocial behaviors toward robots, opening new pathways for therapeutic intervention. This work, cited 18 times, has influenced both clinical robotics and affective computing. She has also explored how physical contact with robots affects user acceptance, and how memory, likeability, and attachment shape long-term human-robot relationships. Her recent 2024 study on tactile interaction for visually impaired individuals with humanoid robots addresses a critical gap in inclusive robotics. Kim’s research is notable for its compassionate, user-centered approach, combining rigorous experimental design with deep sensitivity to the needs of neurodiverse and disabled populations. Her work is shaping a future where robots are not just functional tools but empathetic companions.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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