Hansung Tech

[Engineering Journal | Reporter Kang Young-ho]
The global railway market continues to grow steadily at an annual rate of 2.6%, with increasing expectations for new market opportunities driven by the application of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.

In line with this trend, Korea’s railway technology is rapidly transforming from traditional analog systems to smart and connected infrastructures. The convergence of railway systems with IoT and smart devices is accelerating the demand for more efficient operation and maintenance.

To meet these demands, research on dedicated railway wireless communication networks is underway for train control, signaling, and related systems. Among these efforts, the Korea National Railway (KNR) has launched a joint investment project with Hansung Tech Co., Ltd. to develop a smart shunting signal and route indicator system using optical communication — attracting considerable attention in the industry.

Traditionally, railway signal equipment has relied on wired control systems. However, wired systems are vulnerable to electrical interference from nearby high-voltage lines, insulation failures, ground deformation, flooding, animal interference, and cable aging — all of which can lead to severe system malfunctions and safety risks.

In response, KNR and Hansung Tech developed a system that replaces conventional wired control with optical communication-based control for shunting signals and route indicators.
This new approach offers multiple advantages, including:

• Reduced railway construction costs
• Mitigation of induction effects from overhead lines
• Real-time system monitoring
• Remote route control and simplified maintenance

The innovation enables flexible application to both upgrading existing systems and new railway projects, significantly improving reliability and efficiency.

Founded in 1988, Hansung Tech has established itself as a stable leader in the railway signal, communication, and control component industry. The company recently applied for a patent on an obstacle detection system for monitoring rockfalls and vehicle intrusions on railways, maintaining steady performance even amid challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the guiding principles of “Ownership, Cost Efficiency, Safety, and Trust,” Hansung Tech’s 30 employees continue to advance the company’s mission. Leveraging decades of experience and engineering expertise, the firm develops railway signaling equipment, rolling stock interior components, small construction machinery parts, and traffic signal control devices.

Hansung Tech has successfully exported products to Bangladesh and remains active in international markets while contributing domestically to major railway projects such as Pohang–Samcheok, Boseong–Imseongri, the Seohae Line, and the Janghang Line.

Recognized for its commitment to a clean and safe workplace, the company received CLEAN Factory certification from the Ministry of Labor and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency in 2002, followed by ISO 9001 certification (2004), Venture Business designation (2005), and INNO-BIZ certification (2009).

President Ji Jeong-geun of Hansung Tech stated,

“We prioritize product quality, technology accumulation, and thorough after-sales service. Our goal is to maintain a workplace where both employees and customers can always smile.”

Originally a general machinery parts manufacturer, Hansung Tech entered the railway sector through an early project opportunity — a shift that has since defined its growth. Despite the challenges of operating in a traditionally closed industry, the company’s persistence and field-driven approach have enabled over three decades of steady progress in railway technology.

With its accumulated expertise, Hansung Tech now aims to expand its safety and monitoring systems—originally developed for railway rockfall detection—into highway and tunnel applications, extending its impact to other transportation safety sectors.

“We continuously seek new business opportunities for sustainable growth,” added President Ji.
“Through ongoing R&D, Hansung Tech will remain a productive, innovative, and value-driven company.”

Source: http://www.engjournal.co.kr