As interest in caddie-free golf rounds rises, advancements in AI caddy technology are gaining traction among golfers. A recent survey conducted during the 4th MK Korea Golf Course Evaluation found that 64.2% of 2,316 respondents expressed a preference for playing without caddies, marking the highest percentage since the survey began in 2023.
The shift towards caddie-free golf is fueled by both golfer preferences and the operational challenges many courses face in providing caddy services. According to a report by the Korea Leisure Industry Research Institute, 257 golf courses in South Korea now offer a caddy selection system, an increase of 23 courses from the previous year.
Without caddies, players must manage various responsibilities themselves, including transporting golf bags and assessing course distances. In response, several technologies are emerging to alleviate these challenges.
One notable innovation is the development of automated follow-caddy robots. These devices address the difficulty golfers experience when carrying their bags. While traditional electric trolleys often required manual operation, new follow-caddy technology can autonomously accompany players on the course.
In October 2023, Sena Technology announced its initiative to create a next-generation smart golf trolley utilizing vision AI and precision positioning. Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor and Kia revealed the Mobed Golf concept, which features self-driving and user-following capabilities. Both projects are currently in development and commercialization stages.
Irova’s “HelloCaddy” stands out as a working model in this field. By September 2025, over 800 units had been deployed across more than 30 golf courses in Korea, including the Goyang Country Club, which began using the system this year. HelloCaddy employs radar sensors to track golfers, adjusting its movement based on their pace and direction. It also provides additional features, such as distance measurement, hole targeting information, and the ability to order food and beverages through a portable terminal.
The cost of using HelloCaddy at Goyang CC is 30,000 won for 18 holes, which is significantly less than the combined fee for a traditional cart and caddie, totaling 250,000 won. Reviews from users, shared on platforms like Naver’s golf community, indicate satisfaction with the economic benefits and the overall experience of playing without a caddie.
Furthermore, Mate Mobility has introduced the “SINGLE,” a single-seat cart that allows golfers to move independently on the course. This model enables players to drive directly to their ball’s location, significantly reducing round time. During pilot trials, data indicated that teams using the SINGLE completed rounds approximately 15 minutes faster than those in traditional carts.
The SINGLE is currently used at two golf courses in Korea and is set for wider deployment in the coming months. As demand grows, particularly among facilities that offer multiple daily rounds or accommodation options, the integration of these technologies may redefine the golfing experience.
While robot caddies and smart carts do not replace all human caddy services, they offer a glimpse into how technology can transform the golf landscape, giving players more flexibility in how they approach a game.
