Seoul Deploys AI Chatbot Maeumi to Support Suicide Prevention Hotline

Seoul is taking a bold step in mental health support by integrating an AI chatbot named Maeumi into its suicide prevention hotline system. The initiative, reported by The Korea Herald, aims to provide immediate emotional support to callers before they are connected to human counselors, potentially saving crucial minutes in crisis situations.

The AI Support System

Maeumi represents a growing trend of using artificial intelligence in mental health services. The chatbot is designed to offer immediate emotional support, which can be critical in suicide prevention scenarios where every moment counts. This approach allows callers to receive some form of support while waiting for human intervention.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges

The move comes as Seoul confronts persistent suicide pressures in the city. Mental health professionals have long advocated for expanded access to support services, and AI chatbots offer a scalable solution to meet growing demand. The system could help manage call volumes during peak times and provide basic support to those who might otherwise not receive immediate assistance.

Technology in Mental Health

This initiative reflects a broader trend of integrating AI into healthcare services. Similar to how AI is being deployed in other sectors, from customer service to education, mental health services are exploring how technology can enhance human capabilities rather than replace them.

Implementation Considerations

While the details of Maeumi's implementation are still emerging, the success of such systems typically depends on several factors:

• The chatbot's ability to recognize and respond appropriately to crisis situations
• Seamless handoff protocols to human counselors
• Data privacy and security measures
• Integration with existing mental health infrastructure

Global Context

The Seoul initiative comes amid growing interest in AI-powered mental health solutions worldwide. As AI technology continues to advance, more cities and countries are likely to explore similar approaches to expand access to mental health support.

Looking Ahead

The integration of Maeumi into Seoul's suicide prevention hotline could serve as a model for other cities grappling with mental health challenges. If successful, it may pave the way for broader adoption of AI-assisted mental health services globally.

Source: The Korea Herald

This article is based on reporting by Choi Jeong-yoon for The Korea Herald, published on February 2, 2026.