K-water advances AI water treatment technology via cooperation with US

K-water CEO Yun Seog-dae, right, poses with John Albert, vice president of the American Water Works Association after discussing global cooperation and expansion of AI-driven water treatment technology during the third Asia International Water Week in Beijing, Wednesday. Courtesy of K-water

K-water is working to globally standardize its artificial intelligence (AI) water treatment plant technology and has been exploring enhanced cooperation with the American Water Works Association (AWWA) during Asia International Water Week, Wednesday.

The water treatment system uses AI throughout all stages of production and distribution, aiming to optimize resources and energy through autonomous operations.

K-water is striving to establish its AI-driven water treatment technology as a global standard, aiming to lead in climate technology. Its AI water treatment plant has been recognized by the World Economic Forum (WEF) for its innovation in water management.

To advance this goal, K-water CEO Yun Seog-dae met with John Albert, Vice President of the AWWA, at the third Asia International Water Week in Beijing. They discussed expanding cooperation to promote AI-based water treatment technologies globally.

Yun reaffirmed AWWA's support for the establishment of an international organization for standardization (ISO), a position first expressed at the AWWA’s annual conference (ACE) 2024.

They also explored joint initiatives to tackle key challenges, such as droughts and aging water infrastructure in the U.S., as part of broader efforts to develop digital water management solutions.

Both K-water and AWWA underscored the need for proactive measures to address rising water demand, driven by industrial growth in sectors like AI and semiconductors.

K-water has been strengthening its global network, collaborating with countries such as the U.S., Australia, France and China, participating in ISO/TC224, which focuses on water services, to secure approval for the joint development of international standards.

In addition, K-water signed a memorandum of understanding with AWWA in 2023 and took part in ACE 2024 in California, where it showcased innovations in smart water management.

Yun emphasized that leading in standardization is crucial for shaping the future, and K-water is committed to advancing global water management with its advanced technology.

"Based on our cutting-edge water management technology, we will strengthen cooperation with nations that have advanced water technology and spearhead the international standardization of AI-driven water treatment plants," he said.