Seoul: Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan on Wednesday engaged in discussions with Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar to further the nuclear power cooperation between South Korea and Turkey, as stated by Kim's office. The meeting, held in Seoul, aimed to explore ways to enhance trade and industrial collaboration following their leaders' summit in November.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO) and Turkiye Nuclear Energy Company previously signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) during the 2025 summit. This agreement focuses on expanding cooperation in the nuclear energy sector, with KEPCO expressing interest in participating in Turkey's plan to construct a second nuclear power plant in Sinop. A preliminary feasibility study on the project has been initiated under the MOU.
During the meeting, Kim emphasized South Korea's suitability as a partner for Turkey's nuclear project, citing the nation's half-century experience in nuclear power plant construction and operation. He advocated for a deeper partnership in nuclear energy and also highlighted the importance of cooperation in strategic industries such as biohealth, infrastructure, defense, critical minerals, and supply chains. Kim acknowledged the record trade volume of US$10.7 billion between the two countries last year, amidst global trade uncertainties.