LG's Advanced Automotive Content Platform Features in Kia's Newest Electric Vehicle

LG’s Advanced Automotive Content Platform Features in Kia’s Newest Electric Vehicle

An illustration of various content platforms offered by LG Channels are displayed on the Kia EV3’s in-car screen

The Kia EV3 Comes Equipped With LG’s webOS-Based ACP,
Elevating the In-Car Experience to New Heights

SEOUL, May 27, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is bringing its cutting-edge Automotive Content Platform (ACP) powered by webOS to the latest all-electric SUV from Kia Corporation (Kia). The integration of LG’s ACP into the recently unveiled Kia EV3 marks the first time the innovative solution has been applied to an electric vehicle. LG’s automotive entertainment platform initially debuted in South Korea last year with the introduction of the Hyundai Motor Group (Hyundai) Genesis GV80 and GV80 Coupe.

The webOS-based ACP brings the home entertainment experience into the vehicle cabin, aligning with LG’s future mobility vision to transform the car into a “living space on wheels.” This platform is an integral part of LG AlphaWare, LG’s suite of software solutions for software-defined vehicles (SDVs). It offers a wide range of content that has made LG Smart TVs with webOS so popular with consumers worldwide. Optimized for the in-car environment, LG’s ACP powered by webOS allows vehicle passengers to sit back and immerse themselves in their favorite content – just like they would at home.

LG’s ACP makes commutes and road trips more entertaining and enriching by providing EV3 owners and passengers access to apps from a wide range of premium content providers, including Netflix, YouTube, Baby Shark World for Kids, Stingray Karaoke, Play.Works and LG Channels. Thanks to LG and Kia’s close collaboration, the EV3 conveniently puts LG’s powerful platform at each passenger’s fingertips, enabling them to enjoy high-quality content on the car’s built-in screens. From streaming services and social media platforms to educational content for kids, users have access to a variety of content previously only available on mobile devices or TV.^*

The webOS-based entertainment system from LG is continuously updated and enhanced, ensuring seamless integration with applications such as Baby Shark World for Kids. The mobile education app, beloved by children all over the world, presents over 9,000 songs and stories designed to educate and enthrall young learners and is readily available for download from the LG Content Store on the ACP.

LG’s advanced ACP now offers an enriched content streaming experience with the recent addition of the company’s exclusive, free streaming service, LG Channels. Tailored for in-vehicle use, LG Channels presents over 80 channels, real-time news updates and over 400 VOD content options, including movies, dramas and animated series for children – all ready to watch without any complex sign-ups required. LG aims to expand its in-vehicle LG Channels service (which was first launched on ACP for the Genesis GV80) with more outstanding content choices set to arrive in the near future.

“Featuring numerous user-centric innovations including LG’s ACP powered by webOS, the EV3 enables our customers to enjoy a compelling in-vehicle experience, complete with many of their favorite premium streaming services,” said Ryu Chang-sung, senior vice president and head of the Global Brand & CX division at Kia.

“Our in-vehicle content platform elevates the mobility experience, providing easy access to a diverse array of high-quality content,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG Vehicle component Solutions Company. “We will continue to collaborate with leading global content providers to further enrich LG’s ACP, meeting the demands of both automakers and end users.”

# # #

* The service requires a data subscription for automobiles.

LG Has Two Research Papers Accepted by Prestigious AI Technology Conference

Company Presents Its Exploration and Analysis of Key Technologies for
Robotics and the Metaverse at ICLR 2024 in Austria

SEOUL, May 23, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) recently made an impactful presence at the International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR) 2024 in Vienna, Austria, held from May 7 to 11. Out of the multitude of submissions, LG’s research paper secured a place among the top one percent to be presented at the conference, spotlighting the caliber of LG’s research efforts and cementing its position as a frontrunner in advancing crucial AI technologies across various domains such as robotics, the metaverse and smart homes.

A prestigious, international academic conference focused on deep-learning technology, ICLR consistently features in Google Scholar’s list of top publications in the Engineering & Computer Science subcategory. With an acceptance rate of 25 percent, ICLR maintains its reputation as a discerning platform for cutting-edge research.

LG’s research paper ‘DiffMatch: Diffusion Model for Dense Matching’ was recognized as being among the top one percent of submissions for ICLR 2024 and was selected for an oral presentation at the conference. The paper introduces an AI technology adept at comparing images to pinpoint similarities and variations, facilitating precise identification of object locations and shapes. This innovation holds promise for enhancing spatial recognition speed and accuracy in advanced robotics applications, allowing robots to navigate environments with changing object positions and lighting conditions efficiently.

In addition, LG’s paper titled ‘H2O-SDF Two-Phase Learning for 3D Indoor Reconstruction using Object Surface Fields,’ which focuses on a core technology for the metaverse, was recognized among the top five percentile of submissions and was chosen for a Spotlight presentation. The paper illustrates the utilization of AI to reproduce complex indoor spaces and details of object surfaces in a 3D virtual space. Using 2D images as source material, the AI can identify and render an interior structure – including walls, ceilings and pillars – in 3D. Following this, the technology leverages learned information to add fine details to furniture pieces, home appliances and other household objects, bringing a high degree of realism to virtual spaces. Suitable for diverse applications relating to the metaverse, LG’s innovative tech can also potentially be used to augment existing ‘digital twin’ software, which has become an essential tool for smart factories.

“By applying our own cutting-edge AI technologies to LG products and services, we will continue to make customers’ lives more convenient and enjoyable – whether it’s at home, at work or in the virtual realm,” said Kim Byoung-hoon, chief technology officer at LG Electronics.

# # #

[Executive Corner] Achieving Meaningful Growth With ‘Innovation for Impact’

In business, meaningful growth can’t happen without innovation. It’s essential if your organization is to evolve and thrive, and if you’re serious about adding value to people’s daily lives.

With a thirst to drive innovation, and a wealth of knowledge in the area of IoT, I set out to establish and grow my own startup. I’m happy to say I succeeded in this endeavor. However, with the business model being rather narrow – a continuous cycle of making products and then selling them – there were limitations to what I could do.

After making the decision to sell my company, I went on to serve as the Presidential Innovation Fellow for Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), a program run by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. It was a valuable and enlightening experience. There, I had the chance to work with leading tech companies to further develop and execute plans for industrial IoT and global smart cities. During my seven years in the U.S. federal government, I realized that there are limits to what governments can do with regard to building smart ecosystems. In the end, private companies are the ones bringing the ideas and concepts of smart solutions and businesses to fruition.

This was when I was first approached by LG Electronics. The company wanted to create a new organization dedicated to the discovery of future businesses. LG offered me this amazing opportunity to head up a team they were in the process of putting together.

I thought deeply about the prospect of joining LG. While the company is universally recognized as a strong player in the consumer electronics field, looking in from the outside, it seemed to lack what some might call, a certain ‘disruptive innovation.’ However, I was intrigued by its determination and desire to uncover future businesses and was confident that the company possessed the agility necessary to change and ‘disrupt.’

Personally, I believe that if there are ten great ideas on the table, seven or eight of them will fail to develop into successful businesses. While many people view this way of thinking about business creation as just plain crazy, LG CEO William Cho is, thankfully, not among them.

At LG NOVA, an initiative I am grateful to lead, our mission is to establish a community for nurturing, growing and creating new businesses in new market areas for LG. Early in the LG NOVA journey, we realized that entering new businesses – or new business areas – is difficult if you’re relying solely on your internal capabilities.

If LG wants to create new home appliances, it is in a good position to do this internally because it is already a global leader in consumer electronics, with all the necessary expertise and experience at its disposal. LG NOVA’s mandate is to explore entirely new and different concepts, not currently in LG’s wheelhouse. Although there are thousands of engineers and experts working in LG’s R&D centers, their expertise is in products and areas of business that LG is already in. This is why the LG executive team resolved to look outside of LG.

Our goal is to explore new business avenues that would, ultimately, help contribute to the advancement of LG Electronics. Startups, by the nature of their business model and ability to be at the ground-level of market needs, are leading the forefront of innovation. However, startups will not partner with just any firm that approaches them. This is why we needed to show that LG, as a company, has the commitment and capability to go far beyond home appliances and TVs. This is where LG NOVA comes in.

To establish ourselves in the market, we came up with the idea of hosting a grand challenge. In September 2021, we announced the launch of Mission for the Future, an annual, global competition for startups where we could identify innovative technologies and business ideas for a better tomorrow. The participating startups were tasked with developing and presenting technology-based solutions for improving daily life, our communities and the planet. The tech areas we asked them to focus on included clean tech, healthcare and future tech/AI.

To give you an idea of how it works, imagine there is a startup that creates sensors for use in healthcare devices. They might pitch a scenario or concept where their sensors are deployed in TVs to enable innovative new services. Our own business experts, or entrepreneurs in residence (EIRs), would then work with the startup to assess the feasibility of their idea. In many cases, EIRs would work closely with the startup to develop a relevant, but entirely different business idea that could be exciting to both parties. If the idea was deemed to be viable, and in alignment with LG NOVA’s goals and values, a partnership agreement might result and LG NOVA would launch a new business based on the collaboration. This is how a small, fledgling company can set its unique concept on the fast track to becoming a commercialized product.

Through this process, and by combining our capacity with the startup’s capacity, we can create a joint business where LG has as much ‘skin in the game’ as the startup. And at every step along the way, LG NOVA will be right there with them, from meeting with investors to introducing and marketing the ‘final product’ to customers. Through LG NOVA, we can create new products and services that can make a positive difference – and do it at a much larger scale than a startup could manage, if it were to go it alone.

I am proud to be a part of LG and to help guide LG NOVA into exciting new territories where boundless innovation awaits discovery. And I can say, without exaggeration, that I truly love this role. Ultimately, I’m striving for Innovation for Impact – which also happens to be the motto and the philosophy of LG NOVA. While there are many, many ways to make a profit, we have committed ourselves to achieving profitability in a meaningful way, and to leaving a lasting, positive impact on the world.

By Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, executive vice president of Innovation for LG Electronics, head of LG NOVA

LG Strengthens Position in Commercial HVAC Market With Its Efficient, Large-Capacity Chiller

An image of an LG Chiller reference site

Increasing Popularity of LG’s Chillers is Propelling the Company to the
Top-Tier of Global HVAC Manufacturers

SEOUL, May 21, 2024 — LG Electronics’ (LG) B2B heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) business is experiencing solid growth, propelled by strong sales of the company’s chillers designed for large buildings and commercial facilities. Leveraging LG’s differentiated core technologies, these solutions have seen an impressive surge in average annual sales with a nearly 40 percent increase over the past three years.

Chillers, cooling systems that supply cool air to indoor spaces by circulating cold water through a heat exchanger, have been a part of LG’s offerings since 2011. LG now boasts a full lineup of HVAC solutions, including residential and commercial air conditioners, central air conditioning chillers, chillers for nuclear power plants and building management systems (BMS).

The HVAC business, emerging as a new growth engine for the company, is actively driving global sales of LG chillers. This is accomplished by targeting not only new battery and material manufacturing plants but also established facilities like nuclear power plants. Recently, LG secured a significant contract to supply chillers for a state-of-the-art battery plant being built in North America.

According to LG’s market research, the global chiller market is anticipated to grow by six percent annually until 2027. LG’s goal is to more than double its HVAC product sales by 2030, positioning itself as a top-tier global provider of both residential and commercial HVAC solutions, both of which continue to play a crucial role in LG’s B2B sector success. Commercial chillers are expected to make a meaningful contribution to the expansion of LG’s HVAC business.

LG chillers, equipped with an array of innovative technologies, offer not only great performance and energy efficiency but are also cost-effective in terms of maintenance. By integrating advanced heat pump technology and employing high-efficiency compressors and heat exchangers, LG’s advanced chillers provide reduced energy consumption and operational expenses compared to conventional chiller products.^*

The LG Inverter Scroll Chiller, one of LG’s notable chillers, is an efficient heat pump system that supplies water and provides heating and cooling for commercial facilities. It utilizes R32 refrigerant, which boasts a global warming potential (GWP) only a third to a quarter of that of R410 refrigerant. Designed with easy maintenance in mind, LG chillers feature a number of simple-to-replace components and offer convenient access to streamline the inspection process.

Already well-established in Asia, LG’s chiller business is expanding internationally, increasing its presence in the Middle East, Europe and Central and South America in response to rising demand. The company has an advantage in the HVAC industry thanks to its sophisticated core technologies, which include key components such as compressors and motors. Additionally, LG is proactively investing in research and development, with a focus on essential HVAC technologies including heat exchangers, inverters and heat pumps.

“We are committed to delivering efficient cooling systems that leverage our proprietary HVAC technologies to present exceptional performance and value to our global customers,” said James Lee, head of the Air Solution Business Unit at LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “LG will continue to expand its presence in the global HVAC market with differentiated solutions including chillers, aligned with the latest trends in electrification and decarbonization.”

# # #

^*Compared to previous 1-stage LG chillers, LG chillers adopt magnetic/air bearings (oil-free) with VSD drive, customized impeller and falling-film heat exchanger with high efficiency, increasing non-standard part load efficiency (NPLV) up to 91 percent based on GB Standard Condition, 500RT. Employing oil-free technology and fewer moving parts has helped reduce the operation cost of LG chillers up to 36 percent.

Infusing the Next Generation of LG Home Appliances With ‘Affectionate Intelligence’

A photo of LG CEO William Cho on stage talking in front of the words Affectionate Intelligence

LG first incorporated Wi-Fi modules into its home appliances over a decade ago, and since then, the company has continued to enhance home living with its groundbreaking innovations. A leader in the fast-growing AI home appliance market, LG is now applying its proprietary on-device AI chip – the ‘DQ-C’ – to its latest lifestyle solutions, infusing them with the unique power of ‘Affectionate Intelligence.’

Introduced by CEO William Cho at CES 2024, Affectionate Intelligence underscores LG’s commitment to delivering differentiated customer experiences via cutting-edge AI technology that is more caring, empathetic and attentive.

Affectionate Intelligence is built on three pillars: Real-time Life Intelligence, drawing insights from real-life data gleaned from our global LG smart products and diverse IoT devices; Orchestrated Intelligence, seamlessly coordinating the operation of interconnected devices in alignment with customer preferences and intentions; and Responsible Intelligence, ensuring secure learning and adaptation, upholding privacy and integrity while delivering personalized experiences.

Enhancing Convenience with an Expanded ‘Affectionate Intelligence’ Lineup
LG’s expanded Affectionate Intelligence home appliance lineup now boasts 11 product categories: air conditioners, washing machines, dryers, Styler™️, air purifiers, robot vacuums, refrigerators, electric ranges, dishwashers, water purifiers and TVs.

Launched earlier this year in South Korea, the Affectionate Intelligence stand-type air conditioner offers unparalleled comfort with enhanced ‘AI Smart Care,’¹ a feature that detects the user’s location in real time and automatically adjusts airflow directionality, intensity and temperature. Another innovative addition is the WashCombo™️ all-in-one washer and dryer, which selects the optimal drum motions from LG’s 6Motion™️ technology to gently yet thoroughly care for user’s laundry² after analyzing each load’s weight, humidity level and fabric types.

Looking ahead, LG plans to evolve its Affectionate Intelligence into a generative AI-based service that extends beyond the smart home to diverse sectors and spaces, including mobility and online.

LG’s AI Home Appliances: From Wi-Fi Modules to Hyper-Personalized ThinQ UP 2.0
In 2011, LG became the first manufacturer to apply Wi-Fi modules to its home appliances. Six years later, in 2017, the company expanded Wi-Fi connectivity to most of its appliance lineups, introducing the LG ThinQ™️ brand and ushering in the era of AI home appliances.

In January 2022, LG elevated customization and convenience with the launch of ThinQ UP, allowing the addition of new features to compatible LG appliances based on the analysis of customers’ usage patterns and habits. ThinQ UP home appliances operate intelligently, reducing the time and effort associated with household chores. They also offer flexible subscription options along with the ability to add new user-friendly services. With 336 downloadable ThinQ UP features now available³ – and more being added regularly – users can continually update their existing appliances for a tailored, always-evolving customer experience.

Last year, LG signaled the beginning of a new era for AI appliances with the South Korean debut of ThinQ UP 2.0. This latest smart life solution from the company offers hyper-personalization with advanced, new features plus a range of subscription services from LG and various partner companies.

Dedicated On-Device AI Chip Lineup and Expanded Application
In July 2023, after more than three years of research and development, LG revealed the DQ-C chip – a sophisticated on-device AI chip – and a brand-new operating system for home appliances. Last year, the company also established an organization specifically tasked with developing the next-generation of AI chips for future Affectionate Intelligence home appliances. This forms part of LG’s strategy to diversify its growing portfolio of state-of-the-art AI chips, and to bring the many benefits and advantages of AI-powered performance and features to more customers.

With ‘Affectionate Intelligence’ and impressive core technologies, LG has solidified its position as a global leader in the home appliances industry, and cemented its reputation as a smart life solutions company.

# # #

¹ Products capabilities are currently available in Korean region only.
² Availability for products, features and home services may vary depending on model and region.
³ Availability for products, features and home services may vary depending on model and region.

LG to Present Insights Into Software-Defined Vehicles at AutoTech: Detroit

A car image featuring design elements with official logos of LG and AutoTech Detroit on top

Company to Share Its Unique Perspective on the Transition to SDVs,
Demonstrate How LG Software Solutions Address Key Challenges for Future Mobility

SEOUL, May 17, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG), a mobility sector technology leader, will be sharing its latest insights and innovations at AutoTech: Detroit, taking place in Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A., from June 5-6. Organized by the Informa Tech Automotive Group, AutoTech: Detroit is one of the automotive industry’s premier events, typically drawing over 3,000 industry leaders and experts. This year’s show will explore the latest advancements in automotive technology, including the areas of software-defined vehicles (SDVs), connectivity, electrification and design.

LG’s AutoTech: Detroit conference session, titled BEYOND THE ROAD: NAVIGATING THE SDV TRANSITION, will focus on the present and future of SDVs. The session will explore three pivotal challenges facing the industry: the technical complexities of developing a unified vehicle operating system, how to transform user experiences through the realization of a “Living Space on Wheels,” and the need to adapt current business models for sustained innovation and value creation.

The company’s presentation will seek to highlight the critical role of LG AlphaWare in the evolution of the SDV. A comprehensive suite of software solutions, LG AlphaWare empowers mobility providers to collaborate and innovate, supporting them to overcome diverse technical challenges while bringing home-like comfort and connectivity to the in-vehicle environment.

LG’s session is scheduled to take place at 12:15-12:40 (EST) on June 5 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan. For more information about LG’s session at AutoTech: Detroit 2024, visit here.

# # #

LG NOVA: Building New Ventures to Accomplish Mission for the Future

An image of the venue stage of Mission for the Future program

With an unwavering policy of open innovation with startups around the world, LG has been fostering businesses outside its own to better prepare for the future. These big-picture efforts are centered on LG NOVA, the company’s North American Innovation Center in California’s Silicon Valley – known worldwide as the hub of startups.

Established in 2021, LG NOVA aspires to form a collaborative ecosystem that accelerates the growth of new ideas by working closely with startups on new businesses that can enhance LG’s future readiness.

LG NOVA aligns with LG CEO William Cho’s growth strategy of 3B – Build, Buy and Borrow – to strengthen the company’s future growth engine by embracing talent and technology through exchanges with various innovative companies.

Let’s look at how this essential innovation center works with its partners to bring about groundbreaking advancements. Furthermore, we’ll explore how it is establishing a community dedicated to creating and nuturing businesses that contribute positively to the future of our world.

Discovering Global Startups to Break New Ground in Healthcare
LG NOVA’s “Mission for the Future” program, now in its fourth year, is designed to discover and nurture innovative global startups seeking to improve people’s quality of life in a greener, smarter and more-connected future.

In its first three years, LG NOVA received over 4,000 submissions from innovative global startups, with more than 100 companies selected to explore joint business opportunities with LG.

This year is an especially important one, as this month, LG NOVA unveiled its first new venture, “Primefocus Health,” with Darren Sabo, previously head of commercialization of new health ventures at LG NOVA, at the helm as the CEO. Sabo has a wealth of experience in new business development, making him the perfect candidate to take this digital health venture forward.

(From left to right) Darren Sabo, CEO of Primefocus Health, and Sokwoo Rhee, Head of LG NOVA and EVP of Innovation for LG Electronics

Primefocus Health is committed to easing the journey from hospital to home for patients. It leverages cutting-edge technologies and novel healthcare treatments through a platform designed to offer patients access to a personalized care plan. This plan, curated by their healthcare provider, aids in the recovery from chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.

This healthcare platform also offers providers access to patient data and information, enabling them to assist, guide, communicate and intervene as necessary during the patient’s home recovery. The platform aims to facilitate remote patient monitoring, providing real-time biometric information that can be integrated into the provider’s electronic health record systems.

LG NOVA is collaborating with more healthcare startups through the Mission for the Future program, including XRHealth, which integrates immersive VR/AR technology to provide comprehensive therapeutic care for remote medical treatment, and Mindset Medical, a sensor-based technology platform that utilizes the cameras in personal devices to virtually capture health readings to enhance diagnosis and treatment effectiveness.

Another example that demonstrates LG NOVA’s focus on digital health is Digbi Health, a virtual care platform to treat polychronic mental and physical illness that was selected during the 2021 Mission for the Future challenge. This solution leverages AI to harness clinical, genetic, gut microbiome, food and behavioral signals to target the root cause of illness.

LG NOVA plans to continuously launch new businesses through ventures in LG’s future growth areas including digital health, clean tech and AI.

Promoting Symbiotic Growth in West Virginia
This year, LG NOVA is joining hands with West Virginia to revitalize the local economy by fostering future businesses while bringing instances of win-win cooperations to this U.S. state and the dynamic Appalachian region.

The announcement introduced the NOVA West Virginia Investment Fund, which aims to drive USD 700 million into the region over five years through investment.

The decision to invest in West Virginia, which is over 2,000 miles away from LG NOVA in Silicon Valley, stems from the REINVENT LG initiative. Under the leadership of CEO Cho, LG has been carrying out various initiatives to redefine everything from its business structure and brand to the way it works. What makes West Virginia the perfect partner is its similar desire to reinvent itself to revitalize the local economy.

Primefocus Health also plans to work closely in the Mountain State.

Increasing Funds to Foster Potential Startups
LG NOVA is also significantly expanding the scale of its investment and speeding up its investments for the future. In 2023, it signed an agreement with Clearbrook, a global venture investment company, to expand the global startup development fund – NOVA Prime Fund.

Through collaborating with external experts to identify the latest technology trends, discover more innovative companies and offer comprehensive support, the company hopes to accelerate the growth of startups and discover opportunities for collaborations across various business areas.

A Talent Acquisition Outpost that Competes with Big Tech
LG NOVA also serves as an outpost to secure the best talent in Silicon Valley, an area dominated by big tech companies. By accurately reading future industrial trends and executing effectively, LG NOVA will be able to move one step ahead of the competition. At the same time, their challenging and brave attitude toward innovation will give a boost to the overall organizational culture.

Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, head of LG NOVA, is the perfect example of this. After founding an IoT startup, Rhee went on to serve in the U.S. government, as assistant director for Cyber-Physical Systems at the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology and Presidential Innovation Fellow at the White House.

(From left to right) Joshua Di Frances, the leader of LG NOVA’s incubation office, and Darren Sabo, CEO of Primefocus Health

Joshua Di Frances, the leader of LG NOVA’s incubation office, is another key executive with experience across various areas including medicine, business and the public sector. Di Frances studied neuroscience at Boston University, an MBA from MIT and built an impressive career at CVS Health and the White House. Since joining LG NOVA in 2021, he is working to build new businesses in digital health, cleantech and immersive/AI future technology with his team of entrepreneurs-in-residence.

And, with the recent global boom in startups among AI engineering students, LG NOVA has been hosting the ‘Innovation Festival’ every fall to provide a space where innovative companies and investors can exchange information and expand.

LG NOVA will continue to seek out innovation from outside LG. To learn more about LG NOVA and its efforts to build, nurture and grow future-defining innovations, visit www.lgnova.com.

# # #

LG’s New TONE Free Wireless Earbuds With Pure Graphene for Exceptional Audio

An Ultraviolet light illuminates an open UVnano charging case, with black LG TONE Free T90S earbuds displayed above

LG TONE Free T90S With Dolby Atmos for All Content and Devices, Ergonomically
Designed for a Near-Custom Fit

SEOUL, May 16, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is introducing the company’s latest TONE Free T90S model to the global market, designed to offer impressive sound for a heightened listening experience. The new T90S earbuds are enhanced by pure graphene, boast an even more comfortable fit and possess a range of useful features essential for elevated on-the-go listening pleasure.

Delivering an enriched audio experience with improved accuracy and clarity, the newest T90S earbuds use pure graphene for drivers, a departure from the conventional use of coated graphene. The lightweight and sustainable material is widely known for boosting performance and efficiency in advanced technologies such as semiconductors and solar cells. The use of pure graphene in LG’s latest earbuds reduces vibrations and allows users to revel in well-balanced and precise sound with powerful bass and enhanced mid- and high-range frequencies. The T90S earbuds are designed to take full advantage of graphene’s lightweight nature, ensuring a cozy fit that ensures comfort for prolonged listening.

LG’s T90 TONE Free series continues to provide unmatched level of surround sound experience as the first Dolby Atmos earbuds to support Dolby Head Tracking™ across all content and devices. Dolby Head Tracking technology adapts audio based on users’ head movements, creating a dynamic sense of immersion that places listeners at the center. Whether listening to music, diving into a movie or series or engaging in all the action of a video game, the high-quality sound captivates users on smartphones, tablets or large-screen TVs.

What’s new, T90S earbuds now support Dolby Head Tracking technology up to 24bit / 96kHz audio, allowing users to enjoy studio-level audio quality. The latest earbuds also offer added versatility with Dolby Atmos Optimizer, with optimized surround sound based on three adjustable levels that cater to users’ preferences.

LG continues to present superior sound in partnership with Meridian Audio, featuring Meridian Headphone Spatial Processing (HSP), a specialized technology that delivers a clear center image, making listeners feel like they’re listening to a stereo sound system. In addition to natural, distortion-free sound, Meridian’s Perfect Balance technology allows T90S users to experience a consistent tonal balance despite the volume.

Along with an elevated listening experience, LG TONE Free earbuds ensure hygiene is at the forefront with LG’s exclusive UVnano charging case, which uses ultraviolet light to effectively eliminate 99.9% of bacteria on the ear gels of the earbuds within just 10 minutes of the powered charging cycle.* T90S earbuds adopt medical-grade, hypoallergenic ear gels that absorb dust and prevent dirt from accumulating, effectively reducing skin irritations.

Prioritizing user convenience with enhanced connectivity abilities, the LG T90S model enhances the versatile Plug & Wireless feature, a trait reserved only for LG TONE Free earbuds. With USB-C to AUX and USB-C to USB C cables included, the T90S charging case can be used a transmitter, enabling seamless Bluetooth connectivity between the earbuds and non-Bluetooth devices like in-flight entertainment systems, gym treadmills, hotel TVs and more.

In addition to supporting Bluetooth codecs AAC and SBC for seamless connection with Apple and Android devices, the T90S is also compatible with the aptX Adaptive codec. With the LG TONE Free app, users can sync up to five external devices, eliminating the hassle of manually reconnecting when switching between devices. Moreover, the T90S supports multi-pairing, enabling users to connect to two source devices simultaneously.

For flawless listening and call experiences no matter what is happening around the user, LG’s newest earbuds ensure optimal noise reduction with the company’s Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, adapting the T90S earbuds to surrounding noise levels in real time. What’s more, new ergonomically designed ear tips are designed to create a tighter seal and block more noise, while ensuring a stable fit which enables ANC to perform more effectively.

The T90S earbuds deliver crystal-clear call quality, making it feel as if the caller is speaking right beside the user. LG has integrated a built-in three-microphone system and Voice Pickup Unit (VPU) to monitor background noise, pick up users’ voices and track jaw movements. T90S earbuds feature a new High Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) microphone which further reduces ambient noise, while the earbuds leverage a new algorithm that isolates speech from background noise to optimize dialogue quality and reduce noise.

LG has always been devoted to delivering a comfortable fit without compromising performance. In collaboration with South Korea’s POSTECH Ergonomic Design Technology Lab, the latest earbuds have been designed with ergonomic precision and consistent comfort. Extensive research on the human ear has been conducted to determine how to fit the earbuds securely while applying the least amount of pressure, enabling use in various situations such as at work or during an intense workout.

LG’s newest TONE Free wireless earbuds T90S will be rolled out in major markets worldwide from May.

# # #

^* UVnano is a compound word derived from the words UV and its unit nanometer. Independent testing shows UVnano charging case eliminates 99.9 percent of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia bacteria on earbuds within ten minutes of charging. The UV LED function works only when the charging case is connected to the power cable.

LG Unveils ‘Primefocus Health,’ New Venture Developing Home Healthcare Treatment

New LG NOVA Digital Health Venture Aims to
Enable Providers to Offer Patients Personalized Home Care

SEOUL, May 14, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) has unveiled “Primefocus Health,” a new venture that aims to leverage innovative technologies and new healthcare therapies to enable providers to deliver a personalized, complete care experience and empower individuals to take control of their health at home. Primefocus Health is the first new venture launched by LG NOVA, LG Electronics North America Innovation Center.

This new provider-focused, patient-centric healthcare platform intends to give patients access to new healthcare therapies made available by innovative technology applications, as well as providers access to patient data and progress information to help ensure that their patients are on the right path to better health.

Healthcare providers are under pressure to improve patient care and reduce readmissions and patient and provider costs. However, according to the National Institutes of Health, more than USD 52.4 billion is spent annually to care for patients who were readmitted to the hospital within 30 days for a previously treated condition.

To help reduce these costs and enable better personalized care, Primefocus Health plans to develop a remote monitoring and healthcare delivery platform, using innovative non-invasive technology for tracking patient progress for multiple medical conditions, which can be integrated with the provider’s electronic health record system, artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities for ease of use. The platform aims to empower healthcare providers to effectively manage outcomes, assist, guide, communicate and intervene when needed to deliver quality care.

“LG Electronics has a longstanding, trusted reputation with consumers in homes worldwide, and in unveiling Primefocus Health we are seeking to build on that history as we ask consumers to trust us, in collaboration with their providers, with their healthcare management as well,” said Darren Sabo, CEO of Primefocus Health. “Primefocus Health is committed to leveraging the latest technology to revolutionize patient care at home, leading toward a future of personalized, accessible, and effective care.”

As an LG NOVA-backed company, Primefocus Health brings the high-quality, innovative experience of the LG brand to healthcare. For providers, the Primefocus Health platform will be designed to enable them to extend their care beyond the hospital to the home with the objective of reducing the strain on the provider to keep their patients healthy.

“LG NOVA is dedicated to building businesses that drive positive change and enhance people’s lives,” said Sokwoo Rhee, executive vice president of innovation at LG Electronics and head of LG NOVA. “We recognize that technology can play a key role in the transformation of patient care and the healthcare industry at large, and we are committed to leading that charge with Primefocus Health. We look forward to seeing its impact on transforming home healthcare for patients and providers alike.”

# # #

LG CEO Embarks on Strategic U.S. Visit to Enhance AI Initiatives

The LG CEO William Cho talking at the MS CEO Summit

AI as Key Driver for Future Growth and Customer Experience Innovation

SEOUL, May 13, 2024 — LG Electronics’ (LG) CEO, William Cho, has embarked on a strategic business trip to the tech-rich western United States, a hotspot for global tech titans and dynamic AI dialogues. Throughout his week-long visit, Cho will focus on key tasks such as attracting top-tier AI talent, communicating the company’s vision and strategy to global investors and attending the influential MS CEO Summit. These endeavors are integral to LG’s comprehensive strategy to accelerate the incorporation of AI into all its business sectors.

AI as a Crucial Catalyst for Future Growth and Customer Experience Innovation
Throughout his trip, Cho aims to secure top-notch expertise in the AI field, an area that has recently surfaced as a critical turning point in the industry. He plans to leverage this as a springboard for transforming LG’s future business portfolio and revolutionizing the customer experience.

Annually, LG introduces approximately 100 million products to the market. Given a product lifespan of seven years, it’s estimated that nearly 700 million LG products are currently in use worldwide. Furthermore, the usage data gained from customers interacting with these devices exceeds 700 billion hours. Cho anticipates this enormous pool of usage data will help accelerate LG’s AI progression and the 700 million products will function not just as customer touchpoints but also as service platforms.

“AI, Cloud, and Big Data are new opportunities for LG”
Cho commenced his itinerary by hosting a tech conference in North America on the 11th in Cupertino, California. This program is aimed at drawing in top-notch talent from abroad. Key participants included LG’s AI Lab management team and executives from LG’s various businesses including Park Hyoung-sei, president of the LG Home Entertainment Company; Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG Vehicle component Solutions Company; Dr. Kim Byoung-hoon, CTO and executive vice president; Kim Weon-bum, CHO and executive vice president; and Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, head of LG’s North America Innovation Center.

LG extended invitations to about 50 AI experts currently working in large tech firms and startups in the Bay Area, as well as doctoral researchers from renowned universities in North America. The conference focused on discussions about the company’s vision, R&D strategy and the future trajectory of AI technology development.

Cho expressed, “In the face of transformative shifts such as electrification, servitization and digitalization sweeping across diverse industries, the application of AI, cloud and big data is paving the way for novel approaches and opportunities.” He further elaborated, “These emerging opportunities represent a new potential frontier for us, given our extensive accumulation of core technologies and expertise.”

He also provided detailed insights into LG’s AI vision of ‘Affectionate Intelligence’, which was unveiled earlier this year at CES 2024. Cho emphasized that “AI should fundamentally be used to care for and empathize with customers, provide tangible benefits and improve the customer experience,” a sentiment that deeply resonated with the attendees.

Following this, he announced, “LG is transcending its status from a global leader in the home appliance and consumer electronics to transform into a ‘Smart Life Solution Company’ that expands and interconnects various customer spaces and experiences.” He added, “I envision us collaborating to reinvent dreams as we undertake bold ventures, fueled by optimism for a brighter future and a better life.”

At the event, CTO Kim Byung-hoon spoke on the subjects of ‘Paradigm Shift’ and ‘LG’s Innovation Roadmap for the Future’, and vice president Han Eun-jung of AI Lab discussed ‘Daily Life with AI’. Professors from the University of Southern California and New York University were also invited to present on generative AI and robotics technology. A panel discussion on the theme of ‘Evolution of AI’ also attracted significant interest from the attendees.

Transition from a Leading Home Appliance Brand to a Smart Life Solution Company
Cho’s second agenda includes hosting a non-deal roadshow (NDR) on May 13, where he will interact with key executives from globally influential investment firms based in San Francisco. His strategy aims to depict LG’s transformation to a comprehensive ‘Smart Life Solution Company’. This transition is anchored in broadening the company’s business portfolio, which includes accelerating B2B business in areas such as EV components, HVAC, built-in appliances’ and signage solutions. The expansion of platform-based services like webOS, and venturing into new areas for LG such as robotics and EV charging, are also integral to this transformation plan.

In particular, Cho plans to highlight how LG is proactively engaging in the development and application of AI in its business operations. He aims to stress that creating tangible customer touchpoints is more crucial than merely having superior AI to provide authentic value and experience to customers.

In this regard, LG’s customer touchpoints, secured through its 700 million devices spanning diverse spaces from homes to vehicles and commercial areas, present a significant advantage that is unmatched by other global companies. LG’s goal is to realize Affectionate Intelligence in our daily lives by leveraging extensive real-time life data and expertise orchestrating devices and services to accelerate AI development using its devices as platforms.

Securing Global AI Allies and Discovering New Business Opportunities at the MS CEO Summit
Cho is also scheduled to attend the MS CEO Summit, a private, invitation-only event taking place in Seattle, where Microsoft’s headquarters is located, for three days starting from May 14. This summit serves as a platform for CEOs and representatives of globally leading companies to discuss and exchange ideas on various topics, including the economic and business environment, as well as industry trends.

LG is diligently working to establish world-class AI capabilities, guided by a ‘3B strategy’ that focuses on Building internal capabilities or Borrowing and Buying external resources. Given LG’s extensive global customer touchpoints and its possession of a vast amount of multi-faceted data and customer insights, the opportunities for future collaborations with globally influential tech companies are expected to become increasingly diverse.

# # #

LG Smart TV Users First to Explore Anime Onegai Free Service With Launch on LG Channels

Wall-mounted LG Smart TV in a cozy living room displays a selection of anime content from Anime Onegai on LG Channels

LG Smart TVs Offer Latin American Users Free Anime Onegai FAST Channels for the
First Time With Spanish Subtitles and Dubbing

MEXICO CITY, May. 13, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is offering LG TV owners in Latin America free channels from popular Japanese anime platform Anime Onegai through the company’s exclusive, free streaming service, LG Channels. Anime Onegai is a streaming platform focused on anime founded by Japanese company REMOW, delivering Japanese anime straight from Japan. Available for the first time ever, Anime Onegai’s free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels are set to delight anime enthusiasts across Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Colombia with high-quality Spanish subtitles and dubbing. Whether long-time anime fans or exploring the genre for the first time, Anime Onegai on LG Channels promises to deliver a captivating viewing experience on large LG Smart TV screens.

Anime Onegai on LG Channels provides an extensive selection of anime content to the Latin American audience for free, a region boasting a significant anime fanbase with multiple countries among the top consumers of anime worldwide. Exclusively tailored to Spanish speakers, users can discover anime from a diverse range of genres, from thrilling sports, futuristic science fiction and action-packed adventures to rhythmic music and emotional dramas that tug at the heartstrings.

The Anime Onegai Sport channel invites LG smart TV users to enter the captivating universe of “Kuroko’s Basketball,” a must-see anime that fuses traditional sports with fantasy elements for original adrenaline-filled excitement. For those looking for fast-paced storytelling, the Anime Onegai Action channel provides high-octane content like “REBORN!” a gripping series filled with dynamic characters and masterfully crafted fight scenes.

Anime Onegai also offers content that inspires viewers with healing moments for relaxation and reflection. “Natsume Yujin-cho,” a slice-of-life anime featured on the Anime Onegai Drama channel, takes viewers on an emotional journey filled with heartfelt moments. The Anime Onegai Music channel understands the power music holds in transporting viewers to a new world or intensifying a dramatic scene. Here, music fans can immerse themselves in dramas such as “Full Moon,” which promises viewers an immersive experience with enchanting melodies.

In addition to a diverse selection of sports, action, drama and music channels, the Anime Onegai Sci-Fi channel on LG Channels presents compelling narratives with futuristic adventures and unique worldbuilding. LG Smart TV users can dive into the popular sci-fi anime “Broken Blade” and experience a world filled with epic battles, advanced technology and political intrigue.

Available on LG Smart TVs launched in 2016 and later, LG Channels can be effortlessly accessed directly from the home screen. LG Channels remains the preferred choice for LG Smart TV users worldwide, maintaining its position among the top five most used apps. With the addition of Anime Onegai, users can delve into an even broader selection of content for differentiated entertainment experiences.

# # #

LG Strengthens Advanced Materials Business With Launch of Antimicrobial Glass Powder

A picture of LG’s booth showcasing PuroTecTM at Chinaplas 2024

Company Launches an Innovative New Material PuroTec to Bolster Growth
and Global Presence in B2B Sector

SEOUL, May 10, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is accelerating the growth of its advanced materials business with the launch of LG PuroTec^TM, a cutting-edge antimicrobial glass powder. Designed to safeguard product hygiene and suitable for diverse applications, this innovative material leverages the company’s proprietary glass composition design technology and thorough understanding of real-life home appliance usage environments.

PuroTec, a portmanteau of the words Pure, Protect and Technology, possesses anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that prevent microorganism contamination and associated odors. LG’s glass powder can be incorporated into various materials, including plastics, paint and rubber. Additionally, the company’s antimicrobial glass powder provides chemical and thermal stability, as well as durability and resistance to discoloration.

LG first began developing antimicrobial glass powder in 1996, and now holds an impressive 219 patents related to the production and application of glass powder. The company manufactures its antimicrobial glass powder at LG Smart Park in Changwon, South Korea, which has an annual production capacity of 4,500 tons. This year, the company is expanding sales of its antimicrobial glass powder to major markets in Asia, such as China, Vietnam and India, and is anticipating a year-on-year increase in sales of over 700 percent.

Moving forward, LG aims to significantly ramp up its advanced material business, utilizing international exhibitions to introduce PuroTec to potential global customers. PuroTec was recently honored at Chinaplas, Asia’s largest plastic and rubber industry exhibition, held in Shanghai, China (April 23-26), where it was awarded ‘Innovation of the Year’s status. This month, LG plans to unveil PuroTec at the National Plastics Exposition (NPE), considered one of the world’s top-three plastic industry events, which will take place in Orlando, Florida, USA, from May 6-10.

“We are dedicated to building up our advanced materials business, and are confident that it will drive new growth for our B2B business,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “LG will continue to invest in research and development to further enhance the efficacy and quality of its glass powder materials, and to uncover new cases for its application in the home appliance category and beyond.”

# # #

[Executive Corner] Orchestrating “Affectionate Intelligence” With AI Processors Exclusive to LG OLED

An image of Jung Jae-chul talking infront of an LG TV

Imagine a TV that not only delivers your favorite shows in incredible picture quality but also connects with you on a deeper level. That concept is no longer bound to imagination, as LG’s latest TVs are capable of understanding what you want and need, tailoring every moment you spend with it through ‘Affectionate Intelligence.’ This is the essence of LG’s unwavering commitment to crafting empathetic algorithms through three decades of technological innovation. This ethos seamlessly extends to the development of its AI chipsets, which are designed to foster more meaningful TV interactions.

As a testament to this dedication, LG’s Alpha AI processor, engineered exclusively for its OLED TVs, made its global debut a decade ago as one of the biggest breakthroughs in TV processing technology history. This AI-powered processor is constantly evolving based on customer feedback, which guarantees a TV experience that only gets better with time.

Amidst the widespread adoption of OLED panels, LG OLED TVs set themselves apart courtesy of the first OLED-dedicated AI processor. This processor leverages advanced algorithms and cutting-edge upscaling technology to unlock uncharted levels of picture quality within LG OLED TVs.

Various processing technologies continue to evolve with AI, notably showcasing significant performance enhancements in the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) – essential for affectionate intelligence – with a remarkable surge of 400 percent. LG’s latest OLED evo TVs¹ are equipped with the new α (Alpha) 11 AI processor which boosts processing speeds by 30 percent compared to its predecessor.

What’s more, LG’s premium AI processing technology has expanded to LG QNED TVs, taking the performance of its high-end LCD TV lineup to new levels. LG QNED TVs feature the Alpha 8 AI processor to achieve a 1.3-fold increase in AI performance and 1.6-fold increase in processing speed compared to its predecessor. These remarkable advancements come together to form a powerful yet refined audiovisual experience that heightens the audience’s sense of immersion.

At the core of LG’s AI TVs lies a deep understanding of the user’s preferences, habits and desires. Seeking to enrich the home entertainment experience with versatile personalization and added convenience, the latest LG AI TVs can recognize voices based on unique webOS profiles, making it easier to deliver personalized recommendations based on their personal viewing history.

This user-centric approach lets users access their favorite or most-used content and services in an instant, while Picture Wizard works to tailor picture quality to their preferences to foster a deeper understanding and connection. Picture Wizard lets users pick from a range of image options, so that they can fine-tune images to their liking and receive greater viewing satisfaction without having to learn everything there is to know about technical aspects such as brightness, contrast or sharpness.

With sound quality now deemed just as important as image quality in completing the viewing experience, AI processing technologies have been evolving to help the TV’s audio performance catch up. AI Sound Pro offers richer and fuller audio while the LG TV’s built-in speakers produce virtual 11.1.2 surround sound to heighten immersion. The AI can even enhance dialogue clarity by separating vocals from the soundtrack, making it seem like sounds are emanating naturally from the screen’s center. Moreover, WOW Orchestra creates three-dimensional audio which works in unison with the TV’s built-in speakers and compatible LG soundbars, creating a unified sound together.

LG’s focus on the webOS smart TV platform, which powers over 200 million smart TVs, is clear for everyone to see. webOS enriches everyday life experiences with versatile personalization and enhanced convenience in the form of individual profiles, voice recognition and recommendations based on viewing history. With its extensive user base, LG is set to maintain a strong presence in targeted advertising, FAST and content streaming services.

Lastly, the webOS Re:New program² offers the latest webOS upgrade to existing LG Smart TV owners to guarantee the most up-to-date TV experience for the next five years. That means consumers purchasing an LG OLED TV or LG QNED TV launched in 2024 can benefit from the latest webOS platform until 2028.

To explore the various efforts the LG Home Entertainment Company is making to curate life-enriching experiences for every kind of user, stay tuned to the LG Newsroom.

By Jung Jae-chul, home entertainment research and development lab leader of HE R&D Lab at LG Electronics

# # #

¹LG OLED evo M4 and G4 models.
² Pop-up notifications offering a full upgrade without the need to select specific UX, UI or features are only sent to customers who have agreed to receive them. Please note that this upgrade does not cover the TV’s hardware performance, features or durability.

[Customers at Heart] LG’s Commitment to World-Class Customer Service

Woman with headphones on sitting next to a washer

In the first episode of the ‘Customers at Heart’ series, we take a closer look at how HiTeleservice – LG’s dedicated customer service subsidiary – is enhancing the customer experience through improved customer service around the world.

In the cutthroat world of business, having a great product isn’t enough. Companies need to excel in distribution, marketing and innovation to stay ahead. But even with all that, poor customer service can destroy a brand’s reputation and the loyalty it took years to build.

LG knows this well and is stepping up its game in customer service on a global scale. The goal is to create a standout customer experience by applying its proven customer care expertise from home to abroad.

This year marks the start of a new chapter, with HiTeleservice – LG’s customer service arm – setting up a robust support system to help boost the performance of LG’s service centers worldwide. HiTeleservice’s expert Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) will take the lead, sharing their knowledge and skills in customer service practices, talent development and operational strategies internationally.

The plan is to iron out any differences in service quality that come from cultural and operational variances, aiming for consistently high service standards everywhere LG operates. With Customer Care Centers in over 40 countries, supporting more than 50 languages, LG is serious about providing top-notch support, whether online or offline.

HiTeleservice is now ready to roll out significant support after a thorough review of LG’s global customer service operations. The first step is to upgrade the skills of global CSRs with best practices in customer service, focusing on problem-solving from the customer’s viewpoint. They’ll also get access to English training materials from LG’s learning platform.

But it’s not just about a one-off training session. LG is building a system for ongoing CSR talent development and providing advice for running an efficient organization. This long-term strategy is all about keeping service standards high through continuous improvement.

Moreover, HiTeleservice will offer comprehensive training programs to its own CSRs, including language skills for better global communication and specialized training to hone their core competencies. The aim is to develop customer service pros capable of providing expert advice whenever and wherever they’re called for assistance overseas.

In accordance with its recent reinterpretation of AI as Affectionate Intelligence, LG believes that AI can be harnessed to foster more compassionate and understanding customer experiences. Consequently, the company is progressively incorporating AI into its customer service operations.

One such AI innovation is ‘Smile Plus,’ a customer service call system that uses AI to boost the speed and precision of CSR responses. It offers CSRs a comprehensive view of various customer data, including purchase, delivery, installation and service histories from all touchpoints, such as the website, LG ThinQ app and service call records.

Additionally, LG has devised and implemented an AI-driven feature, ‘STT/TA (Speech-to-Text/Text Analysis),’ which transcribes customers’ verbal expressions into text in real-time, eliminating superfluous tasks and averting miscommunication. STT/TA is also capable of understanding the context of the service call and proposing optimal solutions. Furthermore, LG intends to launch its ‘AI Voicebot,’ an autonomous service call solution presently in the development phase, within the year. This service is designed to handle straightforward inquiries during peak service call times or when calls are experiencing delays.

LG’s dedication to customer service goes beyond the Customer Care Center. It includes sales and repairs, spreading its high service standards across the globe. This involves sending experts to train staff on-site in other countries and hosting group training sessions for overseas personnel. Since 2011, LG has been sharing its successful Korean sales strategies with teams in the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and Southeast Asia.

In essence, LG is not just selling products; it’s delivering an experience. And with this new initiative, it’s committed to offering each customer, regardless of their location, an unparalleled level of service.

# # #

LG OLED Digitally Revives the Works of Kim Whanki, the Master of Korean Abstract Art

LG OLED Brings Back the Works of Kim Whanki to New York in 50 Years
with Frieze New York and the Korean Cultural Center New York

SEOUL, May 3, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is delighted to present a unique opportunity to experience iconic works by the most beloved artist of South Korea, Kim Whanki (1913-1974), in partnership with Frieze New York and the Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY).

A solo presentation of Kim Whanki, “We Meet Again in New York,” will be on view at the LG OLED Lounge at Frieze New York 2024, from May 1 to 5. At the same time, a special exhibition of the Korean master at KCCNY titled “Whanki in New York” will be on view from May 2 to June 13. The two presentations together mark the first public showing of Kim’s works in New York, 50 years after his passing in 1974.

The Pioneer of Abstraction Finding His Voice in New York
Kim is a pioneer of Korean abstract art and best known for his works that epitomize archetypal Korean aesthetics. His artistic pilgrimage – from Korea to Japan, France and ultimately America – has shaped his signature style of pure lyrical abstraction derived from nature, which had a profound influence on generations of abstract painters in Korea. He has been a highly sought-after name in the art market as his works make up nine of the top ten highest-priced artworks by modern Korean artists sold at auction, among which all were completed in New York in his signature “all-over dot” style.

Presenting Kim’s works in New York holds immense significance because it was the city where he finally reached the epitome of his artistic identity with the conception of this unique “all-over dot” painting technique. It was the resulting mastery of the artist tirelessly experimenting with a multitude of materials, techniques and styles, aiming to achieve harmony in color and pattern while capturing the elegance of Asian ink paintings. He was inspired by memories from his homeland and the bustling New York art scene where he cavorted with American painters including Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman. In turn, he became an inspiration to the next generation of Korean American artists like Nam June Paik (1932-2006). New York was where Kim shot for the stars – he held a total of six solo exhibitions in the city in his lifetime with the last one presented a year before his passing in 1974.

LG OLED Continuing the Celebration of Kim Whanki’s Legacy
A total of five abstract masterpieces created during Kim Whanki’s New York period and digitally expressed by a new generation of artists today, will be on view at the LG OLED Lounge at Frieze New York 2024. The group of Korean multimedia artists – including Je Baak, professor at Seoul National University College of Fine Arts; Verseday, a media art creator group; Mano Ahn, CEO of Ahn Graphics; and Jason Kim, CEO of BESIGN – took tremendous care to understand the artist’s intention when he first created the artwork so that they could capture the essence of each piece. This approach revealed richer details and enhanced visual effects in lighting, colors and clarity enabled by LG’s self-lit OLED technology, while preserving Kim’s original artistic intentions. LG OLED, in its commitment to pushing art’s innovation and accessibility, is partnering with Frieze New York and KCCNY to bring these digital expressions of the legendary Korean master back to New York, the city that made the artist Kim Whanki.

The concurrent retrospective exhibition of Kim Whanki at KCCNY, “Whanki in New York,” where LG OLED engages as the Headline Partner, provides more opportunities to catch a glimpse into Kim’s creative world. In addition to the five digital expressions of his works shown by LG OLED, 27 original artworks on loan from the Whanki Museum, including personal items such as diaries, photographs and letters, will be on view. And for the very first time, private collections from New York acquaintances of Kim and his wife will also be on display.

“LG Electronics is proud to celebrate the legacy of Kim Whanki and present a unique opportunity for the global audience to engage closely with a legendary artist who has not been well known in New York until now,” says Kate Oh, vice president of the Brand Communication Division at the LG Home Entertainment Company. “Through our digital canvas, LG OLED and a new generation of artists have revived Kim’s artworks in unprecedented detail, offering an innovative tribute to his legacy.”

LG continues to deliver enriching art world experiences, illustrating the close connection between art and technology through inspiring exhibitions and innovative artist collaborations. The digital artworks brought to life by LG OLED can be found on the OLED Art project website for art enthusiasts and fans around the world to enjoy them at their convenience. To follow the LG OLED ART journey, visit LGOLEDART.com.

# # #

SUBSCRIBE