In response to the accelerating changes in the global industrial landscape driven by new technologies, a comprehensive trend report has been released to assist companies in identifying new business opportunities. The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), led by President Kang Kyung-sung, has published the 'KOTRA World Trend 2027' as of September 16. This year marks the 16th publication of this report, which is based on insights gathered from 132 overseas trade offices in 86 countries.
The report outlines the main core trends for 2027, introducing the concepts of the 'Light Sync Generation,' characterized by a preference for lighter and more flexible living, and the emergence of 'AI Companions.' As society transitions out of a phase of hypergrowth, a lifestyle that prioritizes being 'light and burden-free' has begun to gain traction. This generational shift is reflected in the increasing popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications, enabling individuals to lighten their physical and emotional burden through affordable alternatives and temporary companionship for activities like movies, travel, and sports.
Another noteworthy trend highlighted in the report is the rise of AI companions. In an era characterized by deep AI integration, the relationships between individuals and between humans and machines are becoming increasingly interconnected. The report presents ten keywords that encapsulate these changes, which were once confined to the realms of science fiction.
Specifically, the key trends covered in the report include: ▲ Low-Power Mode Generation ▲ Slimming Economy ▲ Infinite Travel ▲ Mittenomics ▲ Personalization by AI ▲ AI Safety Systems ▲ AI-Driven AI ▲ Redefined Human and Labor Dynamics ▲ Circular and Regenerative Economy ▲ Custom Life.
The report also explores various international case studies, illustrating how different lifestyles and advancements in AI and new technologies are coming together. Examples range from nursing homes that have become retreats for Gen Z seeking an escape from burnout, to individuals engaging in romantic relationships with AI, deepfake detection systems, and AI oversight systems designed to improve emergency healthcare response.
