Taekyun Kim, President of Korea Electric Power Technology: "Technological Independence Through SMRs"... Accelerating AI-Driven Design Innovation and Reactor Type Exports

Taekyun Kim, President of Korea Electric Power Technology Co., Ltd. (KEPCO E&C)

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Korea Electric Power Technology Co., Ltd. (KEPCO E&C) has unveiled a future growth strategy centered on the independent development of small modular reactors (SMRs) and the innovation of design processes based on artificial intelligence (AI). The company aims to become a "reactor model exporting company" in the global nuclear power market, building on its foundation of technological independence.

Kim Taekyun, President of KEPCO E&C, stated at a press conference held at the company's headquarters in Gimcheon on the 27th, "We will achieve complete technological independence and export competitiveness through the independent development of SMRs," adding, "We intend to transition from a structure dependent on specific technologies to a company that directly enters the market with our own reactor models."

Under the slogan "Engineering Tomorrow's Energy," President Kim outlined three main pillars: expanding global outreach based on core technologies such as nuclear power plant design; fostering strategic businesses centered on renewable energy; and securing next-generation growth engines through technology innovation driven by AX (AI Transformation).

Among these, the nuclear power business focuses on "technological independence" and "reactor model exports." President Kim emphasized, "We have reached a level where we can perform nuclear power plant design without Westinghouse personnel, but securing our own reactor models is essential to expanding exports and licensing businesses. We aim to become a 'nuclear fabless' company that leads the market with our design technology and reactor model licenses."

In particular, SMRs are a core means to realize this strategy. President Kim explained, "Large-scale nuclear power plants entail significant time and cost burdens, so securing independent reactor models quickly through SMRs is a practical choice. We are taking an approach of first securing the technology and then creating demand."

KEPCO E&C is targeting the global market with its ultra-small marine SMR, "BANDI." President Kim stated, "We are aiming for the top position in the global marine SMR sector. With the necessary technological capabilities, commercialization could be possible within 10 years."

AI-based design innovation was also highlighted as a key task. President Kim noted, "Designing a single power plant generates as many as 150,000 drawings. By utilizing AI, we will reduce repetitive work and simultaneously improve design efficiency and accuracy."

The company is also working to secure talent. He stressed, "To maintain world-class design competitiveness, continuous recruitment of personnel is necessary. We will significantly expand experienced hiring to strengthen our design capabilities."

President Kim concluded, "Based on our technological self-reliance in nuclear power and SMRs, we will contribute to carbon neutrality and enhancing industrial competitiveness in the global energy market."

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