Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology (KIOST) has begun developing a small crewed submersible that can operate in shallow seas within a depth of 300 meters. The goal is to enable rapid response and precise underwater work in shallow sea zones (coastal waters) where economic activity and maritime disasters are concentrated.
KIOST said on May 4 that it is developing a shallow-sea crewed submersible that can carry up to three people.
The submersible is characterized by combining data collected by advanced sensors with the occupants' direct judgment for operation. Even in underwater environments that are hard to predict, people can directly check the site and pilot it, which is expected to allow faster and more precise responses.
After 2030, when development is completed, it is expected to be used in a wide range of fields, including securing maritime sovereignty, preventing maritime disasters, inspecting infrastructure such as subsea cables, and underwater search and rescue operations.
KIOST is designing the submersible with occupant safety as the core task. The pressure hull, the submersible's central structure, is being built to withstand water pressure of about 30 atmospheres. As the key device that protects occupants, the pressure hull is being developed to secure structural safety that exceeds international certification levels.
Proprietary technology for emergencies will also be applied. KIOST plans to equip the submersible with the world's first "ejection-type emergency escape system." In this system, when an emergency occurs, the pilot separates the occupied pressure hull from the main body and brings it to the surface. This can increase the occupants' chances of survival.
In addition to mechanical safety devices, a real-time monitoring system will be included. It automatically detects subtle deformations of the pressure hull and signs of abnormalities in internal and external systems to identify accident risks in advance. By having the system detect danger signals before the occupants sense anything unusual, safety can be further enhanced.
KIOST plans to complete performance testing by 2030 and finish development to the level of actual operation in waters 300 meters deep.
Shin Chang-ju, a doctor and the principal investigator at KIOST's Marine ICT and Mobility Research Division, said, "A crewed submersible is not merely a means of underwater transport but a national strategic platform that expands the realm of human activity to the sea."