A study on enhancing safeguardability of i-SMR using the safeguardability evaluation tool methodology-based safegurads-by-design approach

• SMR safeguardability quantitatively assessed using Korea's i-SMR design. • A new methodology with a quantitative evaluation tool (SET) was applied. • The "neutralize" diversion strategy is identified as the most vulnerable. • Optimal safeguards for i-SMR can be achieved by minimizing diversion paths. • Applying dual containment/surveillance effectively reduces diversion risk.