SMART basically adopted proven technologies of existing PWR such as 17x17 UO₂ fuel technology, large dry containment building, control rod drive mechanism, and reactivity control concept using BP (burnable poison) and soluble boron. Harmonizing these proven technologies with innovative concept of integrated design, modularized vessel, passive system, and fully digitalized control system & MMIS, SMART has achieved comprehensive technology validation.

SMART has been designed with several enhanced safety features. Passive residual heat removal system can secure 3 weeks of grace period against Fukushima-type accident. Passive hydrogen removal system can prevent hydrogen explosion. Large containment building can secure low hydrogen concentration and aircraft crash proof. SMART minimized fuel failure and adopted passive ex-vessel cooling features to prevent vessel failure.

SMART features four (4) reliable full-passive systems: four (4) trains of Passive Containment Cooling System (PCCS), Passive Residual Heat Removal System (PRHRS) which removes residual heat for more than 20 days, four (4) trains of Passive Safety Injection System (PSIS) which provides emergency core cooling in LOCA (Loss-Of-Coolant Accident), and Passive Hydrogen Removal System (PHRS) which prevents hydrogen explosion.