This study investigates the prevention of slab surface cracks in low-carbon steels intended for enameling applications (DC04EK) through a combined approach of theoretical modeling and experimental validation. The relationship between surface cracks and chemical composition particularly the Mn/S ratio and Mn content was systematically analyzed. Thermodynamic calculations and hot ductility simulations, using Expresslab’s hot ductility module and FactSage software, were employed to evaluate the effects of varying Mn/S ratios on hot ductility and precipitate behavior. Results demonstrated that increasing the Mn/S ratio above 10 and maintaining Mn content above 0.12% significantly reduces surface crack formation by influencing precipitate types and improving hot ductility. Industrial trials confirmed that slabs produced under these optimized conditions exhibit mechanical properties, microstructures, and hydrogen permeability consistent with the EN10209 standard for cold-rolled enamelable products. Hydrogen permeability tests conducted using a Helios device verified that the materials remain within a safe range concerning fish-scale defect risks. These findings highlight the critical role of precise chemical composition control in minimizing surface defects and provide a robust methodology to enhance the quality of enamel-grade steel production.