Samsung advances modular construction with new Training Facility in Suwon

Samsung Electronics is set to integrate modular construction into its operations with the development of a new training facility at its Suwon workplace. The modular building project, spanning 10,000 square metres, will be completed by the end of the year, marking the first time Samsung has applied modular architecture to a major in-house initiative.

The facility is designed to enhance the training environment for employees in the Device eXperience (DX) sector, which includes smartphones, televisions, and home appliances. By situating the centre within its existing Suwon plant, Samsung aims to streamline education and professional development, moving away from external training centres. The space will also feature lecture rooms, practice areas, and seminar halls, supporting a more structured approach to skill-building in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), smart factories, and mobility.

Modular Architecture in Action

Samsung’s adoption of modular construction also aligns with its broader ambitions in the built environment. The approach involves the prefabrication of building components in a controlled factory setting before on-site assembly, significantly reducing construction time and improving cost efficiency. The project is being undertaken in collaboration with Yoochang E&C, South Korea’s leading modular construction company.

The training facility is also being used to explore the integration of Samsung’s AI-powered Internet of Things (IoT) platform, SmartThings, into modular spaces. Samsung aims to evaluate how modular construction and IoT technology can work together to create more efficient and adaptable built environments. The initiative is expected to provide insights into the scalability of modular smart spaces and their potential applications in residential and commercial settings.

Expanding Smart Home Applications

The move comes as research indicates a rising demand for smart home technology in modular housing. Samsung’s Smart Home Buyer Index (SHBI) 2024 found that 79% of surveyed consumers are interested in smart features, with an average willingness to spend AUD $40,000 on home automation. The report highlights a shift towards connected living, with homebuyers prioritising energy efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced security.

Samsung is developing modular housing concepts that seamlessly integrate smart appliances, AI refrigerators, lighting, and climate control. This strategy reflects the growing role of modular construction in delivering adaptable, technology-enabled living environments. As governments introduce stricter energy efficiency standards, modular homes with integrated smart technology could offer a compelling solution for both residential and commercial developments.

With the construction sector preparing for a period of sustained growth, Samsung’s investment in modular architecture signals confidence in its role as a future building methodology. The Suwon training facility is expected to provide valuable insights into the scalability and market potential of modular smart spaces, reinforcing the company’s position at the intersection of construction and digital innovation.

See: Yoochang