The news that the United States designated South Korea as a sensitive country has raised concerns that it could disrupt research and development (R&D) of next-generation nuclear power or exports. However, nuclear power experts一致 agreed that such concerns are nothing more than a 'false alarm.'
The National Academy of Engineering of Korea and the Royal Academy of Engineering of the United Kingdom held the '2025 Korea-UK Clean Energy Workshop' at The Westin Chosun Hotel in Seoul on the 19th. Although the workshop was a gathering of South Korean and British nuclear experts to discuss the direction of next-generation nuclear technology development and international cooperation, the most significant issue was the U.S. Department of Energy's designation of South Korea as a sensitive country.
If South Korea is designated as a sensitive country by the U.S. Department of Energy, domestic research institutes will have to apply at least 45 days in advance to visit DOE facilities. This has raised concerns that it might disrupt cooperation with the United States, which is a key partner in the development of next-generation nuclear power.
However, experts attending the event assessed that such concerns are excessive. Professor Jeong Beom-jin of Kyunghee University stated, "This measure applies to government-funded research institutes and other government agencies" and added, "It will not affect the institutional sector." Professor Jeong explained that "the research institutes also originally applied for visits 45 days in advance, regardless of the sensitive country designation."
Professor Shim Hyeong-jin of Seoul National University noted, "In fact, the United States is in a more regrettable position regarding collaboration on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs); thus, there should be no visible impact on joint research or research and development.
However, some opinions suggested that if the designation as a sensitive country is actually implemented, it could act as an obstacle to local business expansion, such as obtaining permits. Im Chae-young, Deputy Minister of the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, stated, "While we may be able to obtain permits, it could take a long time, and the inability to receive prior confirmation could increase business risks."
Meanwhile, there was also a call at the workshop for South Korea to play a crucial role in the development of next-generation nuclear power. Dr. Sue Ion, honorary chair of the National Academy of Nuclear Technology in the UK, stated in a keynote address, "To achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, a national strategy for nuclear power is essential," adding, "South Korea's nuclear supply chain will play a vital role in international nuclear cooperation."