Yoonjeong Kwak

Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology

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About

Yoonjeong Kwak is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of human-computer interaction, healthcare robotics, and tangible user interfaces. Her primary research focuses on developing innovative, non-verbal communication systems that bridge the gap between patients and medical practitioners, particularly in the challenging domain of pain assessment. Kwak’s most notable contribution is the creation of a robot-assisted online pain communication system that leverages a squeezable tangible user interface. This work addresses a critical flaw in traditional pain scales—the subjective criteria differences between patient and caregiver—by enabling patients to express pain intensity through physical, intuitive interaction rather than relying solely on verbal descriptions or numerical scales. Her 2022 paper on this system has garnered 4 citations, establishing a foundation for more empathetic and accurate remote healthcare communication. Kwak’s research is particularly impactful for telemedicine and chronic pain management, where nuanced patient expression is vital. By integrating robotics with tangible interaction, she is redefining how pain is communicated in digital health environments, making her work essential for researchers in assistive technology and patient-centered design.