"AI-Driven Surge in Power Demand... Nuclear Energy as the Solution Discussed Globally in Busan"

Korea Nuclear Annual Conference and PBNC Held Simultaneously

Follow-up Policies on SMRs Also Gain Momentum

Experts from Korea and abroad have gathered in Busan to discuss the "strategic role of nuclear energy" in response to the rapidly increasing electricity demand driven by the spread of artificial intelligence (AI). With the participation of the Czech nuclear power delegation and global corporations, discussions on cooperation within the nuclear power industry and the expansion of exports have also intensified.

The Ministry of Science and ICT announced that the "2026 Korea Nuclear Annual Conference" was held at BEXCO in Busan from April 22 to 24, 2026.

Reference photo to aid understanding of the article. Aerial view of Saewool Nuclear Power Plant. The Asia Business Daily DB

This year marks the 41st edition of the event, hosted by the Korea Atomic Industrial Forum and supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and other relevant government agencies. Notably, the Pacific Basin Nuclear Conference (PBNC) was held in Korea for the first time in 14 years, significantly expanding the scale of the event.

Under the theme "Nuclear Energy in the AI Era," the conference focused on the role of nuclear power in addressing the climate crisis, achieving carbon neutrality, and meeting the surging power demand from AI. Around 19,000 experts from Korea and overseas participated during the event period.

Czech and Global Companies Gather... Discussions on Nuclear Export Cooperation

The event was attended by Kim Sungsoo, policy chief for R&D at the Ministry of Science and ICT; Park Hyungjun, Mayor of Busan; and Ivan Jančárek, Czech Ambassador to Korea, among others.

During the keynote speeches, Mesut Uzman, President of Fermi Nuclear, which is currently pursuing a large-scale nuclear power project in the United States, and Tomáš Ehler, Director General from the Czech government responsible for adopting Korean-type nuclear reactors, presented insights into the global nuclear power market and directions for cooperation.

At the "Busan International Nuclear Industry Exhibition," held concurrently, a record 155 organizations from 19 countries participated, including Korean companies such as Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and Doosan Enerbility, as well as overseas firms like Westinghouse, Orano, Framatome, and AtkinsRéalis. The Czech Republic operated its own national pavilion, underscoring its commitment to cooperation.

During the event, one institution and 18 experts who contributed to the advancement of nuclear technology and international cooperation were awarded ministerial commendations.

Kim Sungsoo, policy chief for R&D at the Ministry of Science and ICT, said, "The role of nuclear energy is expanding to meet electricity demand in the AI era and to achieve carbon neutrality. In line with the Special Act on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), we will strengthen the establishment of a control tower and support for R&D and demonstration, securing new growth engines through full-cycle technological innovation and the development of next-generation reactors."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.