South Korea's Nuclear Power Expansion Plans

On January 26, 2026, South Korea's Minister of Climate, Energy, and Environment, Kim Sung-hwan, announced the government's decision to proceed with the construction of two large-scale nuclear power plants, as outlined in the 11th Basic Plan for Electricity Supply and Demand. The state-owned Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) is set to begin site selection for these reactors, targeting construction permits by the early 2030s and completion by 2037 and 2038. This plan includes the deployment of the country’s first commercial small modular reactor (SMR) by 2035.

South Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear PlantsSouth Korea Greenlights Two New Large Nuclear Reactors for 2038 CompletionPrime Minister Takaichi Sanae used the expression "nuclear power" toward North Korea. The Japanese g. .

The decision to advance nuclear power construction comes after a period of fluctuating policies regarding nuclear energy in South Korea. Under former President Moon Jae-in, a nuclear phaseout policy was implemented, which faced significant opposition from industry and labor unions. His successor, Yoon Suk Yeol, reversed this stance, promoting nuclear energy expansion until his impeachment in 2025. The current president, Lee Jae-myung, initially favored renewable energy but has shifted back towards nuclear energy in light of public support and rising electricity demands, particularly due to advancements in artificial intelligence.

South Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear PlantsSouth Korea Greenlights Two New Large Nuclear Reactors for 2038 CompletionPrime Minister Takaichi Sanae used the expression "nuclear power" toward North Korea. The Japanese g. .

Recent public opinion polls indicate strong support for nuclear energy in South Korea, with approximately 60% to 80% of respondents acknowledging the necessity of nuclear power. This sentiment has influenced the government's decision to move forward with the construction plans, despite initial hesitations under Lee's administration.

South Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear Plants

The construction of the two new reactors, which will have a combined capacity of 2.8 gigawatts (GW), is projected to take nearly 14 years. Critics have raised concerns about the feasibility of meeting the planned completion dates, emphasizing that immediate site selection is crucial to avoid delays. The construction of the indigenous 1,340-MW APR1400 reactor at the Saeul nuclear station, which began in April 2017, has already faced delays due to changes in government policy.

South Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear Plants

Minister Kim Sung-hwan reaffirmed the commitment to nuclear energy, stating, "The new nuclear plants included in the 11th Jeon-gibon would be built as planned." This reflects a broader strategy to ensure energy security and meet increasing electricity demands.

South Korea Greenlights Two New Large Nuclear Reactors for 2038 CompletionSouth Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear PlantsPrime Minister Takaichi Sanae used the expression "nuclear power" toward North Korea. The Japanese g. .

Despite the public support, some analysts and critics argue that the timeline for construction is overly ambitious, given the lengthy process required to build large nuclear facilities. They caution that delays in site selection could jeopardize the completion schedule, potentially wasting valuable time in addressing the country's energy needs.

South Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear Plants

As KHNP prepares to initiate the site selection process, the government will continue to monitor public sentiment and energy demands. The success of this nuclear expansion plan will depend on effective project management and the ability to navigate the complexities of public opinion and regulatory approvals.

South Korea Announces Plans For Two New Large-Scale Nuclear Plants