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Heesun Shin, Othelia EunKyoung Lee (2024) Academic journal article

Who is behind the robot? The role of public social workers in implementing robotic eldercare program in South Korea

Social Work in Health Care / Taylor & Francis

Ref: SRC-004-KOR-004

Accessed: 3/25/2026

Summary

Qualitative study examining public social workers' roles across three phases of Hyodol programme implementation: selecting potential users, introducing older adults to the robot, and maintaining the programme. Documents increased workload and emotional labour for social workers but maintained high morale. Highlights that practical wisdom of social workers is essential to programme success.

View Harvard reference

Shin, H. and Lee, O.E. (2024) 'Who is behind the robot? The role of public social workers in implementing robotic eldercare program in South Korea', Social Work in Health Care, 63(4-5), pp. 311-327. doi: 10.1080/00981389.2024.2324849.