Formation of B-UNIT Club
Pilot Complex, Overseas Case Studies
Busan Urban Corporation (President Kim Yonghak) announced on the 25th that it has formed an in-house research club called 'B-UNIT' to promote modular construction and is conducting related research.
Modular construction is a method that applies the manufacturing production system used in the automobile industry to construction, moving away from the traditional labor-intensive construction methods. It is an off-site construction (OSC) method where modules are produced in a factory and then assembled on-site.
The biggest characteristic of modular construction is that module production in the factory can proceed simultaneously with earthwork and foundation work on-site, making it unaffected by external natural factors such as weather. As a result, the construction period can be shortened by 20% to 50% compared to traditional on-site methods.
Additionally, factory production leads to ▲ uniform quality ▲ reduction of construction defects ▲ decreased risk of construction delays ▲ minimized high-altitude work, reducing hazards ▲ reduced material loss ▲ less waste ▲ and the possibility of reusing modules when dismantling buildings, which significantly reduces carbon emissions during the construction process. In short, many problems present in the conventional construction industry can be solved through modular construction.
Meanwhile, in advanced countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, and Japan, modular construction has already been active since before the 2000s, with mass production systems established and a sizable market formed within the overall construction industry. Recently, with advances in technology and cost-effectiveness, more projects are applying modular construction methods to build high-rise and large-scale buildings over 30 stories in urban areas.
On the other hand, in Korea, the application of modular construction technology is still in its early stages, mainly centered on public-led projects since 2010. The market share remains low, and related technologies are still lacking. The most significant issue is that modular construction has not yet achieved one of its main advantages?cost reduction. Due to high investment costs and a shortage of modular production companies, mass production is not possible, resulting in construction costs that are over 30% higher than traditional reinforced concrete methods.
Therefore, for Korea to improve its environment, safety, and quality and advance as a leading construction nation, the adoption of modular construction is essential. BMC is conducting research to lead the activation and ecosystem formation of modular construction and to introduce efficient construction modules.
BMC is initially planning research to rebuild aging single-family homes among its purchased rental housing stock into modular homes. Additionally, to promote modular construction, it plans to review related laws and regulations and propose necessary improvements to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the competent authority.
Kim Yonghak, President of Busan Urban Corporation, stated, "Modular construction is an essential field for practicing ESG management and achieving carbon neutrality. We will spare no effort in supporting and paying close attention to research activities to promote OSC-based smart construction."
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