The Gyeonggido Business & Science Accelerator (GBSA) debuted the Gyeonggi-do Pavilion at CES 2025, showcasing 17 promising startups in collaboration with Goyang, Gwangmyeong, Paju, Hwaseong, Ajou University, and Kyung Hee University. The Venetian Expo’s Eureka Park was a platform for innovative startups to enter global markets.
GBSA supported participating companies with pre-event education, IR pitching mentorship, on-site IR programs, and practical assistance, including booth rentals, translation services, and logistics.
IDEA’s ‘LAZO’ and AI Retail Solutions Lead the Way in Global Markets
IDEA Co., Ltd., led by CEO Kim Kyung Seok, participated in the GBSA pavilion with its flagship instant ramen cooker, ‘LAZO,’ and its AI retail solution brand, ‘Hallowa.’ Combining cutting-edge technology with consumer convenience, IDEA has redefined the experience of instant food preparation and automated retail.
LAZO, an instant ramen cooker, has gained popularity in locations such as Han River parks and convenience stores. The device combines water heating and induction functions, cooking ramen in approximately four minutes. Its compact design is tailored for limited spaces like convenience stores and cafeterias.
Photo by IDEA
Designed with user-centric UX, ‘LAZO’ is compact, portable, and easy to install. Its aesthetic design harmonizes with various interiors, making it suitable for convenience stores, franchise outlets, cafeterias, and break rooms. With certifications including KC, TUV, NSF, PSE, and CE, the product ensures safety and reliability, making it a competitive export product.
Over 2,000 units are installed in major convenience stores like 7-Eleven, GS25, CU, and Emart24 in Korea, and the number is expected to exceed 10,000 soon. With 27 nationwide service centers, IDEA has established robust after-sales support, earning high satisfaction from franchise owners.
Globally, ‘LAZO’ has been exported to countries such as the U.S., Mexico, Taiwan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, with over 1,000 units shipped. At CES 2025, IDEA secured an impressive $9 million export deal, further solidifying its position in international markets. CEO Kim stated, “Interest in K-food is increasing, particularly in the U.S. and Mexico, driving demand for ‘LAZO.’”
The device offers convenience with instant cooking, an intuitive user interface, and versatile applications, including digital advertising platforms. Its multifunctionality makes it a valuable tool for both consumers and businesses.
IDEA’s AI retail brand, ‘Hallowa,’ offers innovative solutions such as table ordering systems, kiosks, and unmanned convenience store management. The unmanned retail solution implemented in a Jeju convenience store exemplifies efficient operation and highlights IDEA’s expertise in smart retail.
‘Hallowa’ features an AI assistant with multilingual translation and interpretation capabilities. It also provides payment management, inventory tracking, sales analytics, customer relationship management, and digital marketing tools. By integrating AI and AR technologies, Hallowa is a comprehensive digital partner for smart retail.
With ‘LAZO’ and ‘Hallowa’ as its foundation, IDEA aims to position itself as a global leader in combining AI and food technology. Its focus includes expanding into the U.S. market while continuing to innovate with smart cooking devices. IDEA’s seamless integration of technology, design, and user experience underpins its vision for sustainable growth in the global market.
