Hakmu Shim (HD Hyundai Samho, left) and Pyungsham Cho (KR) celebrated the completion of an AI-based solution development project for design and analysis innovation (Source: KR)
June 5, 2026Written by Martin Wingrove
South Korean shipyard and classification society partner to apply artificial intelligence to structural analysis and ship design documentation tools used in shipbuilding
Korea Register (KR) and HD Hyundai Samho have introduced artificial intelligence (AI) in shipbuilding and evaluation to optimize operations and improve structural integrity.
The South Korean shipyard partnered with the classification society on an AI-based solution development project for design and analysis innovation, starting in June 2025 and ending in June 2026.
Under the memorandum, they were tasked with introducing AI technology into shipbuilding operations and establishing a more efficient and accurate framework for ship design and analysis.
The companies’ joint research focused on developing AI-powered optimization and structural evaluation tools for hull support placement, as well as generative AI services designed to evaluate shipbuilding design documents.
HD Hyundai Sanko and KR developed an AI model for structural analysis that determines the number and location of hull supports, evaluates multiple placements, and identifies the optimal support configuration.
We also introduced domain-specific, large-scale language model services based on generative AI for the management and search of complex shipyard design documents.
KR and HD Hyundai Samho plan to accelerate the adoption of AI across design and analysis workflows by expanding the application of AI to a broader range of business areas.
“This project demonstrated the true potential of AI to transform the way shipyards approach design and analysis,” said Hakum Shim, executive vice president of HD Hyundai Samho.
“We will continue to expand the practical application of AI, with a focus on increasing design productivity, strengthening engineering capabilities, and driving digital transformation.”
AI will increasingly be used to provide expert insights in ship design, engineering, and construction in a secure shipyard environment to improve operational efficiency and productivity.
“This project marks an important step toward modernizing the traditional labor-intensive process of shipyard design and analysis through cutting-edge AI,” said Daeheon Kim, KR Executive Vice President.
“KR will continue to develop and deliver customized AI solutions that create tangible value.”
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