South Korea Selects Sites for Next-Gen Nuclear Power Plants by 2038

South Korea has finalised locations for its next generation of nuclear power plants. Yeongdeok will host two large reactors, while Gijang will site a small modular reactor. The decisions mark a significant step in the country’s energy expansion plans. In January 2024, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power began the bidding process to select host cities for new reactors. Yeongdeok and Ulju applied for the large nuclear power plant, while Gyeongju-si and Gijang applied for the small modular reactor. The New Nuclear Power Plant Site Selection Evaluation Committee later chose Yeongdeok for the large plant and Gijang for the SMR.

The 11th Basic Plan outlines the construction of two large reactors with a combined capacity of 2.8 GWe by 2038. An additional 700 MW of small modular reactor capacity is also planned by the same year. The Ministry of Science and ICT will invest KRW1200 billion in core technology designs for three domestic SMR types by 2030.

South Korea already operates four APR1400 units domestically, with four more under construction. Four additional APR1400 units are in operation at the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE. The National Assembly passed the Special Act on the Promotion and Support of SMR Development in February 2026 to accelerate progress. Yeongdeok will now prepare to host the two large reactors, and Gijang will develop its SMR site. The projects align with South Korea’s long-term energy strategy and its commitment to advancing nuclear technology. Investment and legislative support are already in place to ensure timely development.