In October 2024, the Korea Welding Society along with POSTECH hosted the inaugural Augmented Reality (AR) Welding Competition, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s welding industry.
Held over four days, from October 15 to 18, the event attracted 27 groups and a total of 72 participants, underscoring the growing interest in integrating advanced technologies into traditional trades.
The competition provided a platform for participants to showcase their welding skills using AR simulators, reflecting the industry’s shift towards innovative training methods. Notably, the event did not conclude with a traditional award ceremony; instead, prizes were directly dispatched to the winners’ respective schools or companies.
While the event primarily attracted existing industry professionals, it also revealed opportunities for growth in future editions. The success of this inaugural AR welding competition underscores the Korea Welding Society’s commitment to embracing technological advancements in welding education and training.
In January 2024, Seabery and the Korea Welding Industry Cooperative (KWIC) signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance welding training in Korea through the implementation of Soldamatic. This partnership aims to modernize traditional welding education by integrating AR into their programs, they are setting a precedent for future training methodologies, ensuring that welders are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the industry
This collaboration aligns with the objectives of the AR Welding Competition held in Korea in October 2024, which showcased the effectiveness of AR tools in welding education. Both initiatives reflect a commitment to embracing technological advancements to improve welding proficiency and training methodologies in Korea.
Feedback from participants highlighted the effectiveness of AR tools in enhancing welding proficiency. Many praised the realism and immersive experience provided by the simulators, noting that such technology offers a safe and efficient environment for both novices and seasoned welders to hone their skills.
For a more in-depth look at the event and participant experiences, you can watch the video which provides firsthand accounts of the competition and insights into the benefits of AR welding technology.
As industry continues to evolve, the integration of AR and other advanced technologies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of welding, offering enhanced training opportunities and setting new standards for excellence.
