KEPCO: A Leading Nuclear Reactor Manufacturer
Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) is a cornerstone of South Korea’s energy sector and a recognized global player in nuclear reactor design, construction, and fuel supply. Through its subsidiaries-most notably KEPCO Engineering & Construction (KEPCO E&C) and KEPCO Nuclear Fuel (KEPCO NF)-KEPCO covers the entire nuclear power plant lifecycle, from design and fuel fabrication to operation and decommissioning.
Technological Leadership and Reactor Portfolio
KEPCO E&C is Korea’s only nuclear reactor design company, responsible for the design and engineering of all domestic nuclear power plants and many overseas projects.
The company’s flagship reactor is the APR1400, a Generation III+ pressurized water reactor (PWR) that has achieved international recognition for its safety, reliability, and economic performance. The APR1400 has been exported to the United Arab Emirates (Barakah Nuclear Power Plant) and is being proposed for new projects in Turkey and other markets.
KEPCO E&C has also developed the OPR1000 and is advancing next-generation designs such as the APR+ and small modular reactors (SMRs), focusing on enhanced safety, efficiency, and reduced construction times.
Fuel Manufacturing and Core Design
KEPCO NF, established in 1982, is responsible for nuclear fuel engineering, design, and fabrication for both PWR and PHWR (CANDU) reactors.
The company supplies all nuclear fuel for South Korea’s reactors and has expanded internationally, providing fuel assemblies to the UAE since 2017.
KEPCO NF’s manufacturing capacity is substantial, producing 550 metric tons of uranium (MTU) per year for PWRs and 400 MTU per year for PHWRs.
Global Expansion and Export Success
KEPCO has established itself as a competitive exporter of nuclear technology. The successful delivery of the APR1400 reactors to the UAE marked a milestone for Korean nuclear exports.
In 2023, KEPCO submitted a proposal to build four APR1400 reactors in Turkey, part of South Korea’s ambition to export 10 reactors by 2030.
KEPCO’s reactor designs have received international certifications, including U.S. NRC design certification for the APR1400 and European approval for the APR1000, boosting their global credibility.
Integrated Capabilities and Industry Partnerships
KEPCO’s integrated approach includes architect engineering, nuclear steam supply system (NSSS) design, fuel fabrication, and decommissioning services, making it unique among global nuclear companies.
The company collaborates with major Korean construction firms and international partners like Westinghouse and Toshiba for overseas projects, ensuring advanced technology and efficient project delivery.
Sustainability and Future Outlook
KEPCO is investing in next-generation technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and passive safety systems, as well as participating in international nuclear fusion research.
The company is committed to supporting global decarbonization goals through safe, reliable, and economically viable nuclear power solutions.
KEPCO’s comprehensive expertise in nuclear reactor design, fuel manufacturing, and project execution positions it as a world-class nuclear reactor manufacturer. Its proven track record with the APR1400, robust export strategy, and ongoing innovation in advanced nuclear technologies make KEPCO a key player in the future of clean, reliable energy worldwide.