A model wears LG Pra.L MediHair item on his head in this 2020 file photo / Courtesy of LG Electronics
By Kim Jae-heun
Healthcare has emerged as a key theme among home appliance makers in Korea as more consumers seek devices that can help improve their physical wellbeing amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, according to company officials Tuesday.
Washing machines and air conditioners were popular items before 2015, followed by drying machines and dishwashers until 2020. After the outbreak of the pandemic, people started to eye products that can improve their health, such as massage chairs and medical equipment.
LG Electronics has been capitalizing on the trend by setting up an exclusive team in charge of developing and marketing such household items.
The IT firm has already introduced the "LG Pra. L. MediHair" item, which utilizes 146 lasers and 104 LED lights to support hair growth and slow down male pattern baldness. In January, LG Electronics also launched the "LG MediPain" device which helps relieve pain.
"Before, we focused on developing equipment that treat people's illnesses. Now, our products help prevent and care for injuries. We are approaching the market hoping to find new growth engines in the business," an LG Electronics official said.
The market for massage chairs has been growing over the past three years.
Sales of Bodyfriend massage chairs, the top brand for such products in the world, increased from 480.2 billion won in 2019 to 555.6 billion won in 2020. Its revenue reached 440.5 billion won until the third quarter of last year ― proving the profitability of healthcare-themed home appliances.
Another medical electronics company, Ceragem, saw sales more than double between 2020 and 2021, increasing from 300.2 billion won to 650 billion won.
Ceragem is a local developer of thermal spine treatment devices and introduced a new product, the "Ceragem V6," last August, which can help treat back pain.
In June last year, the company conducted a survey on customer satisfaction with its products and received 85 points out of 100 points. Those in their 50s were particularly satisfied with healthcare items compared to customers in their 20s and 30s.
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