Danish researchers aim to ensure meaningful AI in the toys of the future

Building on Danish toy traditions, ethical design, and play design research, the project aims to develop toys and play concepts that harness AI responsibly, setting new global standards. A key ambition of the international partnership is also to establish ethical guidelines for AI in future toys, with a strong focus on supporting children’s well-being.

Jess Uhre Rahbek, Assistant Professor at the LAB for PlayDesign, is one of the lead researchers on the project:

- Historically, Denmark has been at the forefront of developing play and toys, and now we have the opportunity to remain a key player in the future. But this requires designers to take an active role in shaping the direction. History has shown that if we don’t guide new technologies, they will quickly guide us – just look at social media. That’s why it is crucial that we influence and design the use of AI in toys through research, ensuring valuable experiences for children and upholding high ethical standards.

Together with Yonsei University and a range of partners, Kolding School of Design’s LAB for PlayDesign will develop AI-powered play experiences and define the global ethical framework for the responsible use of AI in children’s toys.

In the first half of 2025, a Danish delegation will travel to Seoul to collaborate with South Korean researchers on the initial prototypes of AI-integrated toys.

Facts:

• Kolding School of Design and Yonsei University, South Korea, have jointly launched the research project PL_AI: Responsible Potentials for Incorporating AI Technologies in Toys and Play.
• In addition to LAB for PlayDesign at Kolding School of Design and Yonsei University, the project also includes partners such as LEGO House, KUBO Education, and Barring Stories.
• Over the next two years, the partners will take turns hosting workshops and seminars to develop and define ethical standards and AI-based play experiences.
• LAB for PlayDesign at Kolding School of Design researches how to design the conditions for meaningful play.
• The Danish Agency for Higher Education and Science has granted DKK 715,600 to the project.