SEOUL - The South Korean government is set to begin the dismantlement of the Kori-1 nuclear reactor in 2023, marking a significant step in the country's nuclear power history, the industry ministry announced on Friday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, The Kori-1 reactor, located in Busan and the nation's first commercial nuclear power plant, was shut down in June 2017 after approximately 40 years of operation since 1978. The Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. is currently awaiting approval from the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission to proceed with the dismantlement. "The successful dismantlement of the Kori-1 reactor is a pivotal moment for the nuclear industry ecosystem and is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the sector," said a ministry official. The dismantlement process, commencing next week, represents a significant milestone in South Korea's nuclear industry.