South Korea Approves Saeul 3 Nuclear Reactor for Pilot Operation

South Korea approved the Saeul 3 nuclear reactor for a pilot run on Tuesday in Ulsan. The move came after a review by the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission. The unit can produce 1,400 megawatts of electricity. The pilot run will last six months before full operation begins.According to Reuters, the project has been in development since 2016. South Korea now moves closer to expanding its nuclear power output. The government says nuclear power remains a key part of the national energy plan.

South Korea Nuclear Reactor Launch Marks Major Expansion

The Saeul 3 nuclear reactor adds to South Korea’s 26 existing reactors. Three more units are also under construction. Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power confirmed these figures on its public site.Officials say nuclear power remains crucial for the country. Nuclear made up 31.7% of South Korea’s electricity in 2024. Gas and coal each made up 28.1% of the energy mix, according to the industry ministry. The new reactor is expected to ease pressure on the grid as energy demand rises.The reactor will operate at limited capacity during the pilot phase. Safety teams will run checks and monitor output levels. If performance remains stable, full operation will begin after six months. The approval reflects a long-term strategy to secure stable, low-carbon energy.

Impact on Energy Supply and Policy Direction

The approval of Saeul 3 shows the country’s focus on stable and clean energy. The government has stressed the need for secure power sources as demand grows. Nuclear energy also supports South Korea’s goals to cut carbon emissions.Analysts say the new reactor may help reduce reliance on gas and coal. It could also support industries that need stable energy for year-round production. The move signals long-term confidence in nuclear as a core power source.For local communities, the new unit may boost jobs and support regional development. Ulsan has long been a center for energy and heavy industry. The full launch of Saeul 3 may reinforce that role in the years ahead.

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South Korea nuclear reactor plans show a clear shift toward stable power and lower emissions. The Saeul 3 unit is expected to play a major role in that shift. The pilot run will be closely watched in the months ahead.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Saeul 3 nuclear reactor?

It is a new nuclear reactor in Ulsan, South Korea. It can produce 1,400 megawatts of electricity. It will start with a six‑month pilot run.

Q2: When will the Saeul 3 reactor begin full operation?

Full operation will begin after the pilot run. The pilot phase will last six months. The start date depends on safety checks.

Q3: How many nuclear reactors does South Korea have?

South Korea has 26 nuclear reactors in operation. Three more are under construction. These figures are from Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power.

Q4: How important is nuclear power in South Korea?

Nuclear power generated 31.7% of the country’s electricity in 2024. It is the largest share among all energy sources. The government plans to keep it central to its energy mix.

Q5: Why is South Korea expanding its nuclear output?

The country wants stable and clean energy. Demand is rising across industries. Nuclear power also helps reduce carbon emissions.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power, South Korea Industry Ministry