Robots Take Over the Café Scene in Daejeon: A Smooth Brew of Automation
Picture this: a slick, white capsule-shaped computer that whirs into action, serving you a Rooibos almond tea latte with the courtesy of a robot barista that’s faster than your favorite espresso machine.
- “Here’s your drink—stir it for extra flavor!” the robot chirps as the tray slides straight into your lap.
- It’s part of South Korea’s new “untact” approach as the country eases from strict lockdown to everyday social distancing.
Meet the Smart Machine Team
Vision Semicon, a smart‑factory pro, teamed up with a state‑run research institute to bring this café marvel to life.
Lee Dong-bae (Research Director) explains the system:
- No human touch required—from ordering to delivery.
- Tables are spaced just right for the robot to glide through.
- It knows the best paths around the café thanks to built‑in self‑driving navigation.
How It All Works
The duo of a coffee‑making robotic arm and a serving bot can churn out 60 different coffee styles and hand them straight to your seat. It even talks to other devices and updates real‑time data.
A quick test: a six‑drink order taken through the kiosk beat any human hand at just seven minutes.
The Human Touch (and Extra Duties)
In this two‑storey spot, the only human employee is the pastry chef who also scrubs the floor and refills ingredients.
Future Plans & Concerns
- The manufacturer hopes to equip at least 30 cafés with robots this year.
- Coach: “Robots are fun—no need to lift a tray,” says 23‑year‑old student Lee Chae-mi.
- But she worries: “Will these robots eat the jobs of people who’re already working part‑time at cafés?”
So, whether you’re a coffee lover or a job‑seeker, the robots at Daejeon’s café are stirring up quite a buzz—both with caffeine and conversation!
