Abstract: Based on the opinion that the collapse of the Daikai station is caused by insufficient deformation capacity of the middle column, the failure mode of the middle column is optimized, and a new segmental cored column is proposed. 3D nonlinear finite element simulations are established by using ABAQUS. The horizontal ultimate deformation capacity and actual working state are obtained through the static analysis. The seismic simulation is carried out for the Daikai station with and without segmental cored column. Then differences in seismic performance are analyzed considering the deformation of the structure at typical time, horizontal and vertical seismic responses of the middle column and sidewalls. The results show that the segmental cored column has excellent horizontal deformation capacity. The deformation of the Daikai station with segmental cored column is reduced obviously, the whole structure is well preserved and no collapse occurs. The middle columns are in safe working condition. The horizontal seismic responses of sidewalls are reduced, and the vertical settlement of the structure is also greatly reduced. The concept of failure mode control makes a significant active effect on the seismic performance of the underground structures.