LG Uplus has unveiled an innovative addition to its digital kids theme park service, KidsTopia, which now allows children to explore Korean ecology and culture in a virtual environment. Announced on April 28, 2025, this enhancement aims to enrich the experiences of its global young users.
KidsTopia is a dynamic platform where children can engage with artificial intelligence (AI) characters in a 3D virtual space, discovering foreign languages, animals, dinosaurs, and even space. The service is not limited to South Korea; it is also accessible in countries like the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand, boasting a total of 1.6 million subscribers. Notably, about 60% of the monthly users are from overseas, highlighting the platform's international appeal.
In a bid to align with the growing global user base, LG Uplus has recreated 'Getbol', a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, within KidsTopia. This virtual space enables children to learn about Korea's unique natural ecosystem by collecting over 120 species of native creatures or solving engaging quizzes. The inclusion of Getbol not only enhances educational value but also introduces children to the ecological richness of Korea.
In addition to ecological experiences, KidsTopia has rolled out a K-POP experience zone themed around the recently debuted girl group, ifeye. This six-member group, which made its debut on April 8, 2025, is gaining traction in the K-POP scene. In the experience zone, users can watch performance videos and follow along with the choreography using their avatars, creating an immersive entertainment experience.
To further enhance language learning, LG Uplus has introduced the 'AI English Experience Convenience Store'. This interactive feature allows children to step into the role of a convenience store clerk, responding to various AI customers in English. This practical approach to language learning encourages natural conversation skills, making it a fun and effective way for children to practice their English.
LG Uplus's commitment to improving KidsTopia has not gone unnoticed. The service recently received the Minister of Science and Technology Information and Communication Award at the '2024 Metaverse Alliance and Autonomous Regulation Achievement Sharing Session' and secured a Gold Medal at the '2024 Mom's Choice Awards', recognizing its excellence in child-appropriate content.
According to Kim Min-goo, the project manager of KidsTopia at LG Uplus, "The experiential content of KidsTopia, based on K-content, connects familiar cultural codes to learning experiences for the global Alpha generation. We aim to provide enjoyable and immersive learning opportunities for users both domestically and internationally." He also mentioned plans to expand collaborations with various K-content companies to further enhance the platform's offerings.
As part of the upcoming Children's Day celebrations in May, LG Uplus will revamp the KidsTopia homepage and conduct a giveaway event for app installation customers, offering a children's science magazine. Additionally, from May 3 to May 5, users will be able to receive avatar accessories, adding to the fun and engagement of the platform.
With its innovative approach to combining education and entertainment, KidsTopia is setting a precedent in the digital landscape for children's learning experiences. The virtual park not only serves as a fun escape for kids but also as an educational tool that bridges cultural gaps and fosters a love for learning.
