(Yonhap Interview) S. Korean startup promotes green smart farming in Middle East

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 13 (Yonhap) -- Drones driven by artificial intelligence (AI) may provide a possible solution to many countries facing serious challenges from aging populations and labor shortages, especially in rural farming areas, the head of a South Korean startup specializing in drone farming has said.

"As farming involves physical labor, the aging population poses challenges to the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on manual work," Jeon Ki-eun, head of Turbine Crew, said in an interview with Yonhap News Agency in Dubai, where she took part in a major startup exhibition that kicked off Sunday.

South Korea is one of the most rapidly aging countries in the world, with the number of people aged 65 and older reaching 10.12 million last year, accounting for nearly 20 percent of the total population.

The chief executive officer of Turbine Crew said while numerous companies around the world feature smart farming solutions, most of them focus on greenhouses with controlled environments, noting that the market still needs innovative technology like her company's drone-powered system.

"Harnessing AI technology, drones can effectively spray pesticides while checking crop conditions in real time," Jeon said, adding that they can quickly identify potential issues through AI-based image analysis.

A group of eight drones can manage 10 square kilometers of farmland with thermal imaging cameras and take immediate measures if any signs of crop disease are detected.

Additionally, Jeon said Turbine Crew aims to promote green farming with its drone system that can be automatically charged at stations powered by solar and wind energy, making the solution fully sustainable.

Turbine Crew, which currently employs 16 workers and had its annual sales estimated at 1.6 billion won (US$1.1 million) last year, seeks to expand its revenue by entering overseas markets.

"For instance, in Dubai, while there are no outdoor farms, there are still business opportunities as our solution can be used to manage gardens," Jeon said.

"We hope to introduce our solution, currently available only in South Korea, to other countries, including those in the Middle East."

colin@yna.co.kr
(END)