LG CNS has hosted a competition focused on mathematical optimization techniques, aiming to discover talent in the optimization field both domestically and internationally.
On September 20, LG CNS announced the conclusion of the 'Optimization Grand Challenge 2026,' the only mathematical optimization competition in South Korea, along with the award ceremony.
Mathematical optimization involves analyzing vast possibilities arising from given resources and conditions to find the most efficient solutions. It serves as a foundational technology for next-generation industries such as AI, quantum computing, and robotics.
This year, participants from 55 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, Germany, and India, took part in the competition. In just three years, the event has grown into an international competition. The number of participating teams surged from 343 last year to 958 this year, an increase of approximately 2.8 times. The number of participants also more than doubled, rising from 676 to 1,448.
Notable universities such as Carnegie Mellon, Imperial College London, Stanford University, and the University of Tokyo, along with domestic institutions like Seoul National University, KAIST, and POSTECH, participated. Professionals from major companies, including Accenture, IBM, Samsung Electronics, and Hyundai Motor, also competed.
This year's challenge focused on 'block placement optimization' in shipyards. Large vessels are constructed by assembling hundreds of structural blocks made separately. Competing teams were tasked with developing algorithms to determine where, in what direction, and when to place these blocks within a limited workspace. The key was to maximize space utilization while meeting deadlines.
After preliminary and final rounds, the top six teams advanced to the finals held in South Korea. These teams presented their algorithms for solving the shipyard block placement problem. A panel of judges evaluated the solutions based on logic and algorithm performance to determine the final rankings.
The grand prize was awarded to a team from Japan. LG CNS distributed a total prize pool of 200 million won to 20 teams, including the grand prize winner. Additionally, opportunities for internship placements linked to hiring or exemptions from document screening for job applications were offered based on rankings.
LG CNS has utilized mathematical optimization technology to solve over 200 business challenges across various industries, including shipbuilding, defense, steel, logistics, transportation, manufacturing, finance, telecommunications, traffic, and aviation. Recently, it has optimized material loading and crane operation schedules for steel companies, as well as the routes and charging schedules for airport guidance, patrol, and self-check-in robots, and painting work plans for shipbuilders.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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