Science ministry official commits to SMR hub at Gyeongju research sites

The science ministry's first vice minister said Thursday the government will back a Gyeongju research institute as a core base for national small modular reactor development and demonstration, pledging support for large research projects to move ahead promptly.

Koo Hyuk-chae made the commitment after touring two research sites in the southeastern city, where the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute operates facilities tied to the proton science group and where the Munmu Daewang Science Research Institute is under construction. He gave the keynote at the Korean Nuclear Society's autumn academic conference at the Haico Convention Center, which runs for three days from Oct. 28 with 15 thematic workshops and about 600 papers, drawing some 1,600 participants from industry, academia and research institutes.

Koo described the global backdrop in which nuclear power is drawing renewed attention as a way to address rising electricity demand from the shift to artificial intelligence, alongside carbon neutrality and energy security goals. He outlined the ministry's nuclear policy and the status of large-scale research and development projects, including efforts to commercialise SMRs.

"The role of the proton accelerator is important as essential infrastructure supporting domestic high-tech industries such as semiconductors and aerospace," Koo said.

At the proton science group, officials reviewed the operation of a proton accelerator that provides beam service around the clock and supports testing across a range of advanced industrial fields, and examined preliminary research aimed at improving its performance. At the Munmu Daewang construction site, the discussion covered plans for the institute's opening and ways to resolve pending issues, including securing additional power.

"The government will not spare interest and support, including the swift推进 of large research and development projects, so that the Munmu Daewang Science Research Institute can become a key base for national SMR research and development and demonstration," Koo said.