![[Korea_Atomic_Energy_Research_Institute_logo_(Hangul).svg|300]] Company website: [https://www.kaeri.re.kr/eng/](https://www.kaeri.re.kr/eng/) ### Introduction The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) was established in 1959 as South Korea's sole professional research-oriented institute for nuclear power, initially under the Office of Atomic Energy, without specific individual founders highlighted in its origins as a government initiative. Headquartered in Daejeon, South Korea, KAERI's mission is to develop innovative nuclear technology that protects public safety and the environment, while reinforcing basic science research capabilities and advancing nuclear applications for societal benefit. KAERI's key focus areas encompass nuclear reactor design and safety, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and research reactors; fuel cycle technologies; radiation applications for medicine and industry; decommissioning and waste management; and international cooperation in nuclear R&D to support South Korea's energy security and global non-proliferation efforts. As a government-funded entity, it plays a pivotal role in South Korea's nuclear program, contributing to both domestic power generation and exports of nuclear technology. ### Key Products and Technology - **HANARO Research Reactor**: A 30 MWt multi-purpose research reactor based on the Canadian Maple design; features open-pool configuration, high neutron flux for materials testing, isotope production, and neutron beam research; applications in nuclear fuel development, medical radioisotopes, and silicon doping for semiconductors. - **SMART Small Modular Reactor**: A 100 MWe integral pressurized water reactor (PWR) with passive safety systems; features modular construction for export, desalination capabilities, and enhanced safety through natural circulation; applications in small-scale power generation, remote areas, and combined heat/power for developing countries. - **High-Density Uranium Silicide Fuel**: Advanced fuel for research reactors, replacing high-enriched uranium; features improved density and performance for non-proliferation; applications in converting reactors to low-enriched uranium, enhancing safety and efficiency. - **HTGR Coated Particle Fuel**: Technology for high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs); features TRISO-coated particles for high burn-up and safety; applications in hydrogen production, process heat, and next-generation reactors under the NHDD project. - **HYPER (Hybrid Power Extraction Reactor)**: A system for clean nuclear power and transmutation of waste; features accelerator-driven subcritical reactor design; applications in waste minimization, sustainable energy, and closing the fuel cycle. - **Nuclear Batteries**: Compact, long-life power sources using radioisotopes; features semi-conductor conversion for efficiency; applications in remote sensors, medical devices, and space exploration. - **Decommissioning Technologies**: Tools and methodologies for safe reactor dismantling; features robotic systems and waste processing; applications in site restoration and environmental protection. ### Team and Leadership - **Han Gyu Joo, President**: Leads overall strategy and R&D direction since his appointment; expertise in nuclear engineering and reactor physics; oversees international collaborations and innovation. - **In-Cheol Lim, Executive Vice President**: Manages operational and research activities; background in nuclear safety and reactor operations; focuses on advanced reactor development. - **Eunju Jun, Director of International Programs**: Chairs GIF ETWG for human capacity-building in advanced reactors; expertise in nuclear education and policy; promotes global R&D partnerships. ### Recent News and Developments (2025) | Date | Event | Details | |------|--------|---------| | July 15, 2025 | Philippine DOE Delegation Visit | KAERI hosted a delegation from the Philippine Department of Energy to explore nuclear cooperation opportunities, discussing potential joint R&D in reactor technology and safety. | | May 19, 2025 | EPRI Executive Delegation Meeting | KAERI hosted the Electric Power Research Institute delegation to discuss advanced nuclear technologies and potential collaborative areas in reactor enhancement and safety. | | May 2, 2025 | South Korea Wins Czech Nuclear Deal | KAERI contributes technical expertise to South Korea's $18.2 billion contract for building nuclear reactors in the Czech Republic, supporting export of Korean nuclear technology. | | April 14, 2025 | Renewed MOU with Argonne National Laboratory | Signed agreement to expand nuclear R&D cooperation, focusing on advanced reactors, fuel cycles, and safety research between KAERI and ANL. | | March 26, 2025 | Bilateral Expert Discussions | Experts from KAERI and international partners shared developments in nuclear innovation, exploring future cooperation in research and technology transfer. | ### Partnerships and Collaborations - **Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)**: Discussions in May 2025 on advanced reactors and safety enhancements, exploring joint R&D for future nuclear technologies. - **Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)**: Renewed MOU in April 2025 for expanded cooperation in nuclear R&D, including advanced reactors and fuel cycle innovations. - **Hyundai Engineering**: Collaboration on SMART SMR development and export, including memorandum for exploring markets and technology integration. - **Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL)**: MOU for innovative nuclear R&D, focusing on clean energy solutions and joint projects in reactor technology. - **Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN)**: Extended MOU for collaboration in nuclear safety, waste management, and advanced reactor research. - **Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC)**: Technical cooperation for research reactor upgrades and nuclear R&D, including instrumentation modernization. - **LG Innotek**: Partnership for nuclear battery development, leveraging KAERI's radioisotope technology for commercial applications. - **India (via Ambassador Visit)**: Explored bilateral nuclear collaboration in 2024, ongoing into 2025 for R&D and training exchanges. ### Closing Note As a government-funded research institute at a mature stage with stable national support, KAERI is well-positioned for future growth through international partnerships and advancements in SMRs, clean energy, and decommissioning technologies, contributing to global nuclear innovation and South Korea's energy goals. *Report generated July 28, 2025*