Hanwha Ocean said on the 26th it has newly introduced a master craftsperson program that treats top production technicians at the industry's highest level and selected two first-cohort masters.
The two masters appointed that day are Cho Su-yeon, giwon (Merchant Ship Division), and Park Sun-bok, giwon (Special Ship Division), and the "Hanwha Ocean 1st Master Appointment Ceremony" was held on the 25th at Geoje Belvedere.
Masters receive phased compensation and support. They receive a 10 million won reward and additional incentives based on performance evaluations. They are also provided a purple royal–colored safety helmet symbolizing the honor of master, a personal office, and a company vehicle.
When the term of up to two years ends, a brass plate recording performance and contributions is listed in the in-house "hall of fame," and after retirement they are given the opportunity to work as technical instructors to help pass on know-how. Hanwha Ocean said this level of compensation is the industry's highest level of treatment.
The two masters were recognized for solving on-site challenges and establishing standard work across key shipbuilding processes. Cho Su-yeon, giwon of Outfitting Team 2, joined in 1996 and achieved eight process improvements, including developing no-rail vertical and horizontal EGW (electrogas welding) devices, and holds two related patents. Cho's no-rail welding device was included in the 10 mechanical technologies of the year in Korea selected in 2024 by the Federation of Korean Mechanical Engineering Societies.
Park Sun-bok, giwon, who joined in 1989, improved six processes, including developing an automatic plate bending machine and applying welding automation technology to special ships. Park also further improved 13 work conditions, helping prevent accidents and reduce workers' labor intensity.
The two masters will take on the role of on-site technical leaders starting on the 3rd of next month. They will carry out tasks such as accident prevention, revising standard work instructions, improving quality and delivery reliability, enhancing productivity and costs, and mentoring junior staff.
Hanwha Ocean also plans to newly operate a separate "TL (Tech Level) system." It divides the technical skills of production employees into five levels and provides a lump-sum incentive each time they advance. Masters are selected from those who achieve the highest TL level.
A Hanwha Ocean official said, "The combination of the master program and the TL system is expected to be a ladder of growth for junior employees and a platform for honorable transfer of skills for masters."