"Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly permeating daily life and industry, emerging as a key driver of the national economy. Nuclear power is a realistic energy source that can reliably support surging electricity demand."
Kim Hoe-chun, president of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. (KHNP), said this on the 22nd while attending the 2026 Korea Atomic Power Annual Conference (KAP) at the Busan Exhibition & Convention Center (BEXCO) in Busan. This year's theme is "nuclear power opening the AI era," and the event runs through the 24th.
Kim said, "Countries around the world are expanding nuclear power plants to meet exploding electricity demand," and added, "Korea will continue operating existing nuclear plants, and we have also applied for standard design approval for SMRs."
The United States plans to more than quadruple its nuclear capacity by 2050, and China is aiming to operate more than 100 nuclear units. France said it plans to build 16 more reactors. In the United States and Canada, small modular reactors (SMRs) have entered the initial construction phase.
Kim said, "I hope the global nuclear industry will put safety first and engage in active cooperation and solidarity," and added, "I hope this conference will be an opportunity for experts from each country to share information and explore ways to cooperate."
Since holding the first conference in 1986, the Korea Atomic Industrial Forum (KAIF) has hosted the Korea Atomic Power Annual Conference every year. This year's conference is co-hosted by the Pacific Nuclear Council (PNC)—formed by 14 nuclear-related organizations from 10 countries gathered under the auspices of the Pacific Basin Nuclear Conference (PBNC) held in conjunction—and the Korean Nuclear Society. The Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources are supporting the event, and major domestic and international corporations, including Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. (KHNP), are participating as sponsors.