Chairperson Choi Won-ho of the Nuclear Safety Commission noted in his 2025 New Year's address that the safety regulatory framework for innovative small modular reactors will be meticulously prepared, and research will also be proactively conducted for the regulatory standards for reactors to be implemented in the future.
Chairperson Choi said in his New Year's address on the 2nd, “We will proactively prepare to respond to future regulatory demands in a timely manner.”
Chairperson Choi stated, “On one side, there are calls for stricter regulations on nuclear power plants, while on the other side, there are demands for regulatory easing,” adding, “The rapidly changing domestic and international nuclear policy environment and the swift advancements in nuclear technology present us with many challenges.”
He further emphasized, “We will thoroughly review the policies and systems we have pursued, maintaining the good ones and improving the lacking ones,” and added, “Our regulatory policies and systems must be developed to meet global standards.”
He identified the establishment of regulations for new nuclear technologies, strengthening communication with the public, creating a rational regulatory framework, and enhancing expertise as key policies.
Chairperson Choi said, “I will actively communicate with the public to build trust,” and noted, “I will transparently disclose our work, meet with stakeholders from various fields, and listen to the difficulties faced in the field.”
He also stated, “I will ensure the safety of nuclear power plants, radiation-producing devices, and waste storage facilities is quickly confirmed and necessary safety measures are thoroughly implemented,” and added, “I will effectively respond to the high demand for continuous operation reviews of nuclear plants.”