The LADIS Lamp DISinfection, a cap‑type drinking‑water UV sterilizer, has been recognized for its innovative approach to safe drinking water in underserved communities. Designed by Hwanjong Oh, the device combines compact form, solar‑powered operation, and a user‑friendly cap that can be attached to standard water bottles, delivering rapid UV sterilization that eliminates harmful pathogens.
Hwanjong Oh, a designer originally from Laos now based in the Republic of Korea, created the LADIS Lamp to address the persistent challenge of water‑borne diseases in areas lacking reliable water treatment infrastructure. The device’s lightweight aluminum body houses a UV‑LED module that activates with a simple twist, emitting germicidal light that neutralizes bacteria, viruses, and protozoa within seconds . The project was selected as a finalist in the 2025 Seoul Design Award, a global platform that highlights designs promoting sustainability and social impact.
Designer Name: Hwanjong Oh
Key features of the LADIS Lamp include its portability, as the cap‑type design fits on most water bottles, making it easy to carry and use on the go; its solar power capability, with a small solar panel integrated into the cap that charges an internal battery, enabling off‑grid operation; its rapid sterilization, where UV‑LED technology provides disinfection in under 30 seconds, ensuring immediate access to safe water; and its durability, thanks to an aluminum housing that resists corrosion and impact, suitable for rugged environments.
Beyond its technical merits, the LADIS Lamp embodies a user‑centered philosophy. By turning a familiar object, a bottle cap, nto a health‑saving tool, the design reduces the learning curve for users unfamiliar with complex water‑treatment systems. The project has been praised for its practicality, low energy consumption, and potential to improve public health in remote regions , fulfilling its mission of “safe water anytime, anywhere.”
The recognition from the Seoul Design Award brings increased visibility to the LADIS Lamp, opening opportunities for partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and humanitarian organizations seeking scalable water‑purification solutions. Early interest has already been expressed by several NGOs operating in Southeast Asia, where access to clean water remains a critical issue. We are living in times where climate change and population growth intensify water scarcity. Portable UV sterilizers like the LADIS Lamp represent a practical, low‑cost strategy to safeguard public health. This product highlights how thoughtful design can bridge technology and community needs, offering a glimpse of a future where safe drinking water is within reach for everyone.
The post Portable UV water sterilizer brings clean, drinking water to those who need it first appeared on Yanko Design.
