The Gwangju-Jeonnam Integrated Special City is seeking to enhance the competitiveness of its construction industry and explore collaborative development strategies using advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins.
The city announced that it hosted the '2026 Construction Industry Technology Seminar' at the Yeosu Expo Convention Center from October 29 to 30.
Organized by the Gwangju-Jeonnam branch of the Korean Society of Civil Engineers, the event attracted over 800 participants, including construction officials, university professors, society members, and students, who shared insights on the latest construction technologies and industry trends.
Discussions focused on enhancing the technological competitiveness of the local construction industry in preparation for the expansion of regional transportation networks and industrial infrastructure following the administrative integration of Jeonnam and Gwangju, as well as strengthening disaster response capabilities in light of climate change.
In a keynote address, Professor Park Jun-hong of Yonsei University presented on 'Transforming National Infrastructure for Mega Project Success,' outlining the direction for large-scale infrastructure projects and potential changes in the future construction industry.
Professor Lee Jong-han of Inha University introduced technologies for predicting facility performance and maintenance based on AI and digital twins. Researcher Kim Seung-hyun from the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology discussed disaster response technologies for landslides and other emergencies, while researcher Kim Hyung-jun presented flood response technologies utilizing AI and digital twins in the context of climate change.
Hwang Jae-woong, a manager at Hyundai Engineering & Construction, explained the industry's response challenges amid digital and energy transitions.
The seminar covered a wide range of topics, from technologies for analyzing facility conditions in a digital environment and predicting risk factors to strategies for responding to floods and landslides due to climate change.
An exhibition space was also set up to showcase the technological capabilities and products of local construction companies. Participating firms introduced innovative construction methods, new technologies, and materials, facilitating exchanges of technical information with contracting agencies and industry stakeholders.
The seminar included a 'Construction Industry Technology Golden Bell' event aimed at nurturing future construction talent, allowing students to enhance their understanding of construction technology and engage with industry and academic representatives.
Jang Yong-chae, president of the Gwangju-Jeonnam branch of the Korean Society of Civil Engineers, stated, "With the establishment of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Integrated Special City, the importance of expanding and maintaining social infrastructure is growing. We will leverage the society's expertise and research capabilities to diagnose local issues and serve as a knowledge community connecting local governments, businesses, universities, and research institutions."
Kim Gi-hong, head of the Balanced Development Office of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Integrated Special City, remarked, "The construction industry is a key sector that supports the local economy and builds the foundation for future growth. We will work to enhance the technological competitiveness of local construction firms and strengthen collaborative efforts to secure new growth opportunities following the administrative integration."
This event was significant not only for confirming the potential applications of advanced construction technologies but also for equipping local firms with the technological capabilities and collaborative frameworks necessary to respond to regional infrastructure projects.
However, for technology exchanges to translate into actual industrial competitiveness, follow-up policies supporting the adoption of new technologies by local firms, the training of specialized personnel, and the expansion of opportunities for participation in public construction projects will be essential.
Meanwhile, the Gwangju-Jeonnam Integrated Special City plans to enhance the technological competitiveness and collaborative efforts of local construction firms in preparation for the expansion of regional transportation and industrial infrastructure following the administrative integration. There is keen interest in how the AI and digital twin-based facility management and disaster response technologies shared at this seminar will be applied in future local construction sites.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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