South Korea Approves Two New Nuclear Reactors

How Shin Hanul 3 and 4 Will Help South Korea Cut Fossil Fuels and Secure a Clean Energy Future

Table of Contents

• A Look Back: From Suspension to Construction
• APR1400 Reactors: A New Standard in Nuclear Technology
• A Nuclear Comeback
• Global Leadership in Nuclear Technology
• What’s Next for South Korea’s Nuclear Industry

In a move towards growing South Korea's energy security and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC) recently granted a construction permit for two new nuclear reactors—Shin Hanul 3 and 4. This marks a milestone for South Korea, who has historically relied on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) and thermal coal.

A Look Back: From Suspension to Construction

The journey of Shin Hanul units 3 and 4 began in 2016, when Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) first applied for a construction permit. Originally, these reactors were slated for commercial operation by 2022 and 2023, but the timeline shifted dramatically under former President Moon Jae-in’s administration, which sought to phase out nuclear power. Construction was suspended for five years as the country leaned toward renewable energy and a reduced dependence on nuclear plants.

However, the election of President Yoon Suk-yeol in 2022 reversed the nuclear phase-out policy. Since then, his administration has made nuclear energy a central piece of its energy strategy, aligning it with South Korea’s broader goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. The country has committed to building four new reactors by 2038, with the Shin Hanul reactors being the first to receive the green light under this new policy.

APR1400 Reactors: A New Standard in Nuclear Technology

The Shin Hanul 3 and 4 reactors will be built using the APR1400 technology—an advanced pressurized water reactor design that is expected to enhance both safety and efficiency. There are already four operational in South Korea

With a capacity of 1,400 megawatts (MW) each, Shin Hanul 3 and 4 will significantly contribute to South Korea’s power grid once they become operational in 2032 and 2033, respectively. The reactors will help reduce the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels, which still account for nearly half of its electricity generation.

A Nuclear Comeback

Nuclear power is on the rise in South Korea. In the first half of 2024, nuclear energy overtook both coal and natural gas as the largest contributor to the country’s electricity supply. According to energy think tank Ember, nuclear power accounted for 32% of the nation’s electricity generation, surpassing coal and gas, both of which contributed 28%. This marks a significant shift in a country that has long been one of the world’s top importers of fossil fuels.

South Korea’s pivot back to nuclear energy can be attributed to several factors, including global geopolitical tensions and a renewed focus on energy security following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As a result, nuclear energy is becoming a cornerstone of the country’s efforts to diversify its energy sources while maintaining industrial growth.

Global Leadership in Nuclear Technology

South Korea’s nuclear ambitions aren’t limited to its domestic needs. The country is also expanding its footprint in the global nuclear market; KHNP recently won a contract to build two reactors in the Czech Republic. This follows KHNP’s successful collaboration with the United Arab Emirates on the Barakah nuclear power plant, which is now fully operational.

What’s Next for South Korea’s Nuclear Industry?

Looking forward, South Korea plans to further expand its nuclear capabilities. In addition to the large-scale reactors like Shin Hanul 3 and 4, the country is investing in small modular reactors (SMRs), which could provide more flexible and cost-effective nuclear power solutions. These reactors are expected to come online by the mid-2030s, complementing the larger nuclear fleet.

The approval of the Shin Hanul 3 and 4 reactors is a major step in South Korea’s nuclear renaissance. As the country moves towards a cleaner, more secure energy future, nuclear power is poised to play a crucial role. With new reactors under construction and international contracts in hand, South Korea is positioning itself as a global leader in nuclear energy.