South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT introduced plans at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference to develop next-generation nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and offshore nuclear power, and said it aims to expand international cooperation.

The ministry said on Tuesday that First Vice Minister Ku Hyeok-chae (구혁채) attended the 70th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Austria, from Sept. 14 to 18 as South Korea's head of delegation and delivered a keynote speech on Sept. 15.

In his address, Ku described nuclear power as a key foundation for energy security and carbon neutrality and a strategic future growth technology. He said South Korea is pursuing both expansion of stable carbon-free power sources and development of next-generation nuclear technologies. He also presented a plan to develop next-generation nuclear technologies and create new markets through seven "SEED projects".

Based on a special law on SMRs, he introduced plans to expand development and use of the innovative SMR (i-SMR). He also outlined a plan, as part of the "K-Moonshot," to develop an SMR-powered ship by combining nuclear technology with shipbuilding and marine technology. Ku said trust in safety and responsibility is important for expanding next-generation nuclear technologies, and stressed the need for international cooperation for sustainable nuclear power generation.

He also reaffirmed South Korea's commitment to the international nuclear non-proliferation regime. Ku said South Korea would cooperate with the IAEA on international issues, including the nuclear issues involving North Korea and Iran, safety and security at nuclear facilities in Ukraine, and Fukushima contaminated water.

During the conference, he held bilateral talks with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi and senior officials from key countries including Singapore and Canada to discuss cooperation in future nuclear fields such as SMRs. Ku also requested that senior officials from each country attend the IAEA nuclear ministerial meeting to be held in South Korea in October.

Ku and Grossi also attended the opening ceremony of a South Korean technology exhibition hall organised under the theme "Korea-IAEA Cooperation 70th Anniversary Partnership and Future Vision," and shared achievements in cooperation and future visions. He also donated $20,000 to support the IAEA's activities to combat cancer in developing countries.

Ku said, "South Korea will lead next-generation nuclear innovation, including SMRs and offshore nuclear power," and added, "I hope that at the IAEA nuclear ministerial meeting to be held in South Korea next month, we can discuss together with representatives of each country new possibilities for nuclear power and the future of international cooperation."