"K-New Reactors to the World"... Korea-UK Discuss Cooperation on New Nuclear Power Plant Construction

Our government discussed cooperation plans in the nuclear power sector, including new nuclear power plant construction and decommissioning, with the United Kingdom.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on the 15th that it held the "5th Korea-UK Nuclear Industry Dialogue" with the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero at The Plaza Hotel in Seoul.

This meeting, held for the first time in three years due to COVID-19, was led by Lee Seung-ryeol, Director General of the Nuclear Industry Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and Chris Hepfer, Head of Nuclear Power at the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. Representatives from Korea Electric Power Corporation, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, the UK Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, the Office for Nuclear Regulation, and other related companies and institutions participated.

Through this meeting, both countries shared recognition of the importance of nuclear power for energy security and achieving carbon neutrality, and reached a consensus on the need for mutual cooperation to strengthen the role of nuclear power.

In April 2022, the UK announced through its "Energy Security Strategy" a plan to increase the share of nuclear power in total electricity generation from 15% in 2020 to 25% by 2050 (24GW in installed capacity).

Jung Seung-il, President of Korea Electric Power Corporation, is also actively promoting nuclear power sales to major countries including the UK. Last month, President Jung visited the UK and met with high-level government, parliamentary, and industry officials to discuss business promotion plans. In particular, he shared the successful construction and operation achievements of the Korean-designed nuclear reactor type ‘APR1400’ and introduced the strong willingness to actively participate in the UK nuclear power projects and the conditions for business promotion.

Director General Lee Seung-ryeol said, "The UK is a pioneer in nuclear power, having operated the first commercial nuclear power plant in 1956 and participated in the construction of the Kori Nuclear Power Plant, maintaining long-term cooperation with us," adding, "Based on this, we look forward to further strengthening cooperation in the nuclear power sector going forward."

UK Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Plant Construction