In a significant move aimed at revitalizing its nuclear energy sector, South Korea has approved the construction of two new nuclear power plants on its east coast in Uljin. Named Shin-Hanul 3 and 4, these reactors have received the essential permits from the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC), which granted the go-ahead to Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) for the 1.4 GW pressurized water reactors. This marks the first approval of its kind since 2016, when permits were last issued for the Saeul 3 and 4 reactors in Ulsan.
The journey to this approval has been a protracted one. Initial proposals for Shin-Hanul 3 and 4 were submitted in 2016, but faced a halt in 2017 due to a shift in national energy policies. The review process was only rekindled in July 2022, indicating the government’s renewed commitment to bolstering its nuclear energy capabilities. The recent approval is seen as a pivotal step in reinvigorating South Korea’s nuclear industry, and specifically rejuvenating the ecosystem surrounding it.
This development follows the commissioning of two similar reactors at Shin Hanul, which became operational in December 2022 and April 2024, respectively. As of the end of 2023, South Korea boasted a total installed energy capacity of 147 GW, with nuclear power accounting for 25 GW, or approximately 17% of this capacity. The green light for Shin-Hanul 3 and 4 signifies not just an expansion in nuclear energy infrastructure, but also a strategic initiative to ensure a stable and reliable energy future for South Korea. The decision is expected to provide a significant boost to the country’s nuclear power sector, echoing optimism for future growth and development.
