Flitto Deploys AI Translation Solution That Even Handles Regional Dialects
South Korea’s Flitto has successfully implemented a specialized AI translation solution at Hanwha Ocean that is revolutionizing communication between foreign workers and Korean managers. This innovative system, known as “OTalk,” has been specifically designed to recognize regional dialects and workplace slang commonly used at shipyards, where effective communication is crucial for safety and productivity.
Customized Features Addressing Unique Challenges
Hanwha Ocean’s AX division spearheaded the project in response to on-site requirements, collaborating with Hanwha Systems and Flitto to develop and deploy the system. Shipyards often face challenges due to the use of unique slang and regional dialects, making immediate communication between Korean and foreign workers difficult. OTalk was meticulously tailored to address these specific challenges, with Hanwha Ocean collecting data on shipbuilding terminology, slang, and dialects to inform the development process.
Seven-Language Support and Enhanced Communication Features
OTalk boasts voice data training in seven major languages, including Korean, English, Vietnamese, and Thai. The system has significantly improved its ability to recognize regional accents, such as the Gyeongsang Province dialect, facilitating smoother communication between workers. Additionally, the solution offers a range of custom features, including sound pickup adjustments for different work environments, group chat capabilities, and real-time translation of text, documents, and images.
Pilot Success and Future Expansion
Pilot operations at Hanwha Ocean have demonstrated the effectiveness of OTalk, with a remarkable 96% usage rate among foreign workers. The success of the pilot has led to increased demand from subcontractors, prompting the expansion of OTalk distribution to a wider workforce. Flitto’s CEO, Lee Jung-soo, emphasized the significance of this project in overcoming language barriers and highlighted plans to further expand language support and enhance speech synthesis technology.
The deployment of OTalk at Hanwha Ocean marks a significant milestone in the realm of AI translation technology, showcasing its potential to improve communication in high-risk industrial settings. As shipbuilding industries continue to rely on diverse foreign workforces, solutions like OTalk are essential for ensuring clear communication, enhancing safety protocols, and driving productivity. With plans for continued language support expansion and technological advancements, OTalk is poised to revolutionize communication across various industries beyond shipyards.
