Korea eyes 10-year extension for Kori-2 reactor
South Korea’s nuclear regulator will decide on Thursday whether to grant a 10-year operational extension to the Kori-2 reactor, which began operating 42 years ago. The Nuclear Safety and Security Commission postponed its September decision to allow further review of the proposal from state operator Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power.
The 650-megawatt facility stopped generating electricity in April 2023 after its original license expired. Approval would permit operations through April 2033 and establish guidelines for nine additional aging reactors awaiting similar requests, seven of which face shutdown by 2030.
The nation operates 26 reactors that supply roughly 30 percent of its electricity demand. Climate Minister Kim Sung-hwan visited the southeastern coastal plant last week, suggesting government support for the extension.
Two commission members recently completed their terms, leaving vacancies that could influence the vote. The board can approve measures through majority decision despite the empty seats.
