Figure skating champion Kim Yuna featured in Samsung Electronics’ “AI Appliance Troika” campaign (Photo courtesy of Samsung Electronics)
SEOUL, May 26 (Korea Bizwire) — With forecasts predicting a historically hot and humid summer, South Korean consumers are scrambling to buy air conditioners—especially smart models powered by artificial intelligence—well ahead of the seasonal norm.
Samsung Electronics reported a sharp spike in domestic air conditioner sales, surpassing an average of 10,000 units sold per day from May 19 to 23. That milestone, reached roughly a month earlier than in 2024, translates to more than seven units sold every minute. Over 80% of the models sold were equipped with AI features, reaffirming Samsung’s branding push of “AI appliances = Samsung.”
The surge comes as South Korea braces for a prolonged heatwave, prompting consumers to invest early in cooling solutions. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Samsung’s home air conditioner sales rose 51% year-over-year. Last week’s sales were up more than 30% compared to the same period last year.
Samsung’s 2025 lineup includes four AI-powered models—such as the Bespoke AI Wind-Free Combo Gallery and AI Q9000—featuring intelligent climate control, energy-saving modes that cut power usage by up to 30%, and seamless integration into smart homes.
To meet demand, Samsung began full-scale production more than 10 days earlier than last year and activated a team of 4,700 dedicated installation professionals.
The company is also aggressively marketing its AI appliance lineup—including air conditioners, refrigerators, and washers—under the “AI Appliance Troika” campaign, featuring figure skating icon Kim Yuna in promotions for its flagship Wind-Free Combo unit.
Production of stand-type air conditioners at LG Electronics’ manufacturing line in Changwon, South Gyeongsang Province (Photo courtesy of LG Electronics)
Rival LG Electronics is also benefiting from the heat-driven demand, with sales of its Whisen AI stand-type air conditioners jumping 45% year-over-year between January and April. Subscription services for LG air conditioners—bundling maintenance, filter replacement, and UV sterilization—more than doubled over the same period.
LG’s latest models, such as the Whisen Objet Collection Tower I and View I Pro, come with AI voice recognition. The system interprets casual phrases like “It’s hot in here” or “Another tropical night” and adjusts temperature and airflow accordingly—no remote required.
To meet the surge in demand, LG has been running its Changwon production lines at full capacity since March and has increased its technician workforce for prompt installation services.
With both tech giants racing to meet demand and consumers increasingly embracing AI-enabled comfort, South Korea’s air conditioner market is poised for one of its hottest summers—both in temperature and sales.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)