3D printers aren’t as commonly used by average consumers in Korea due to its huge price tag.
The hardware sells at around 2-thousand U.S. dollars.
In order to break down such economic barriers, 3D-Developer, founded by its parent trading company, Mirae International Trade,… launched a leasing and rental program for the public.

“We want to lead more people to use the 3D printing technology because we believe this is a very good thing, good for the industrial efficiency and also it can help to get their own customized product. Also they can change people’s lifestyle. So in order to expand this new technology we’re trying to watch what is the real barrier for the market.”

With monthly rental fees set at 35 U.S. dollars and an option to buy at the end of a two-year contract period, the company says its printer leasing program creates easier accessibility for customers to try the new hardware. The program also assures the machine will continue to operate properly, even after it’s purchased.
The company says its customers are not limited to a specific group… but includes manufacturers of toys and jewelry, as well as R&D centers, universities… and ordinary people.

“For example, we can try to make my shoes. Somebody can scan my feet and then maybe we can design. We can change some design to make my own shoes and then I can just print it.” Will Mirae also offer CAD software?