Coupang announced that, in collaboration with its partner companies, it is introducing an AI sorting system, strengthening on-site inspections, and applying customized packaging methods to improve the quality of its fruit dawn delivery service. Most recently, the company has expanded the introduction of AI fruit sorters to watermelons, following tangerines and Korean melons, gearing up for summer fruit quality management.

[Precision Analysis of Sweetness and Internal Condition Using AI Non-Destructive Optical Sensors] The newly introduced AI sorter utilizes non-destructive optical sensors and computer vision technology to precisely analyze the fruit's sweetness, moisture content, and internal condition. Previously, watermelons were inspected by professional sorters who tapped them by hand to test via sound waves, but the new AI technology sorts them with high accuracy, detecting even central deterioration or hollow cavities. As a result, the likelihood of shipping fruits that appear fine on the outside but have internal issues has been significantly reduced.

[Minimizing Delivery Damage Through On-Site Presence at Major Producing Areas and Double Packaging] Coupang is increasing the volume of AI-sorted fruits to enhance the dawn delivery quality of 'Rocket Fresh'. In particular, the Rocket Fresh quality assurance and management teams are stationed directly at major production sites to thoroughly inspect the entire process from harvest to packaging. A 'two-track inspection system' is also in operation, where the team visits watermelon and tomato producing areas in Haman, South Gyeongsang Province, and Buyeo, South Chungcheong Province, every day to confirm top-grade fruits before shipping them to the logistics center.

Packaging methods have also been improved to maintain fruit freshness and minimize damage during delivery. Watermelons undergo double packaging, where they are protected with cushioning materials such as bubble wrap and then placed in dedicated boxes. Coupang plans to expand the application of this reinforced packaging to other fruits vulnerable to shock, such as melons, grapes, peaches, and strawberries, in the future.

[Supporting Market Expansion for Farming Households in Depopulated Areas] Last year, Coupang purchased 7,550 tons of fruit from depopulated areas nationwide, aiding market expansion for rural farming households. This year, the company plans to actively continue discovering new production areas and expanding direct purchases.

The Coupang Rocket Fresh Quality Assurance Team stated, "The AI fruit sorter boasts superior performance compared to existing non-destructive sorters," adding, "We will expand the use of AI sorters to various fruit categories in the future."

A Coupang official remarked, "We will maximize synergy by combining state-of-the-art technology with the expertise of our employees and partner companies," and added, "We will provide a differentiated freshness experience by advancing innovative processes, including AI technology."