Timetables for the introduction of 'AI Shopping Agent Payment' by Naver (NAVER) and Daum have been released. It is expected that during next year's Lunar New Year holiday, AI systems from both portals will be able to search for needed products, compare them, and complete purchases on behalf of users.
According to the IT industry on the 21st, Naver plans to pilot a feature allowing payments within its AI shopping agent for select product categories before year-end. Daum, operated by Upstage, also intends to launch a beta version of its commerce agent that guides users from product search and comparison through to purchase early next year.
Naver launched its shopping AI agent beta service last February. The focus was on enabling users to describe desired products in natural language, with the system finding and comparing items that match their conditions. Payments are not yet processed within the agent itself; clicking a recommended product redirects users to the Naver Smart Store product page to complete ordering and payment.
Once the pilot of the payment function begins, some product categories will allow the entire process—from product discovery and recommendation to payment—to occur entirely within the agent. Usage metrics for Naver's shopping AI agent are strong. According to Naver, daily average conversation sessions increased by 60% and transaction volume rose by 82% between June and September 17.
Naver is also expanding the scope of its shopping agent application. In June, it extended the agent beyond the Naver Plus Store app to include the main Naver app and mobile web. Plans are in place to roll out the feature on personal computers before year-end. Naver is enhancing capabilities such as AI summary modules for product detail pages, trend-based recommendations, membership benefits, and delivery information services.
Daum will also introduce its AI shopping agent early next year. A Daum representative stated, "We are developing an AI search agent for Daum that enables users to find products, compare them, and proceed to purchase based on their needs," adding that a beta launch is scheduled for early next year.
Daum's commerce agent is part of Upstage's ongoing efforts to enhance AI search capabilities following its acquisition of Daum. When users input their desired product conditions, the AI identifies relevant items, compares them, and connects users directly to the purchase stage.
Upstage continues to invest in related personnel. Current staffing stands at approximately 250 employees. While the company has not disclosed specific hiring targets, it confirmed, "We plan to actively increase our workforce." The Jeju office remains operational.
Naver was the first to outline its revenue model. Currently, Naver does not display advertising products within its shopping agent. For items sold through the agent, only standard Smart Store transaction fees apply; no additional fees are charged.
Daum has yet to finalize its payment partners or revenue model. The beta service launching early next year will primarily focus on validating the user experience of product search, comparison, and purchase connection.
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