Abstract

Background: With the rapid increase in the aging population and care needs, the deployment of Social Care Robots (SCR) is expanding. However, existing individualistic ethical frameworks or top-down robot ethics principles have limitations in reflecting the specificity of care, which relies on interdependence and context. This study aims to examine how the relational and reciprocal framework of ethics of care is applied to the design, deployment, use, and governance of SCRs and to discuss its practical implications. Method: This study followed the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and reported findings in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A Human-AI Collaboration approach was adopted, utilizing a LLM as an auxiliary tool for search strategy formulation and literature screening to enhance efficiency and comprehensiveness. Literature search and selection resulted 16 final articles and subjected to inductive thematic analysis. Result: The analysis categorized the application of care ethics to SCRs into two metathemes. First, Relational Supplementation (the practical dimension) emphasizes that SCRs should complement rather than replace human relationships, while respecting autonomy and cultural contexts. Second, Technical Supplementation (the fabrication dimension) focuses on embedding ethical values during the development phase and addressing issues of trust, vulnerability, and privacy. Discussion: From the perspective of care ethics, SCRs must be redefined not as tools for cost reduction or labor substitution, but as social supplements that support existing care relationships. Consequently, the ethical utilization of SCRs requires an approach that views them as public goods, supported by substantial social infrastructure and public responsibility.