South Korea's nuclear watchdog has approved a plan to extend the lifespan of the Kori-2 reactor by 10 years. The move signals a more diverse energy mix in the government's green energy drive amid the AI boom. The reactor shut down two years ago after 40 years of operations starting in 1983.
The Nuclear Safety and Security Commission approved the plan to extend the Kori-2 reactor's lifespan by 10 years on November 13. Located on South Korea's southeastern coast, the commission's review found that the reactor "maintains sufficient safety margins" and meets safety requirements, including environmental impact assessments. As a result, the Kori-2 can operate until April 8, 2033.
The approval followed two rounds of reviews in September and October, which were delayed as committee members requested more time. Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Co. (KHNP) expects the decision to set a precedent for life extension applications for nine other aging reactors. The Kori-2 is currently the nation's oldest active reactor, with Kori-1 and Wolsong-1 units permanently shut down.
KHNP plans to replace equipment to secure safety margins, followed by the commission's on-site inspection. Commission chairperson Choi Won-ho said, "Through the on-site inspection, the committee will thoroughly check whether KHNP's equipment renovation meets safety standards so the Kori-2 reactor can operate safely."
The Lee Jae Myung administration is pushing to expand renewable energy use, but industries have raised concerns over potential power shortages amid the AI drive. KHNP welcomed the decision and vowed to prioritize safety for a timely restart. Experts say the move will ensure stable electricity supply in South Korea.
Choi Sung-min, a nuclear energy professor at KAIST, told Yonhap News Agency, "Nuclear energy is the most economical carbon-free source." He added, "The continued operation will contribute to South Korea's economy, industrial competitiveness and achievement of the NDC target," referring to the nation's carbon emission reduction goal. On Tuesday, the government approved a plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 53 to 61 percent from 2018 levels by 2035. Nuclear power is seen as vital for surging energy demands in AI and data centers, supporting carbon neutrality by 2050.