South Korea Joins IAEA-Facilitated International Framework ATLAS for Maritime Nuclear Energy Cooperation

The international cooperation framework for maritime nuclear energy, "ATLAS," led by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has recently been launched. The framework aims to promote international discussions on safety, security, safeguards, and legal and regulatory standards concerning nuclear applications in the maritime sector, including nuclear-powered ships and floating nuclear power plants. A South Korean government delegation attended the launch event held in Washington, D.C., on August 26-27 (local time).

South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) stated that with the development of next-generation nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors, the international shipping industry is increasingly focusing on utilizing nuclear energy for ship propulsion and offshore power supply, with a view to exploring new technological pathways toward carbon neutrality. South Korea is also advancing the development of small modular reactors for shipboard applications through seven SEED projects and the K-Moonshot initiative, among others.

With the IAEA at its core, ATLAS focuses on supporting international coordination involved in the introduction of maritime nuclear energy, including nuclear safety, nuclear security, safeguards, legal systems, regulatory frameworks, and the development of international standards. The framework will also promote cooperation between the IAEA and international organizations in the nuclear and maritime fields, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

At the launch ceremony, participating members exchanged views on international standards and directions for cooperation in maritime nuclear energy applications. The South Korean delegation was led by Koo Hyuk-chae, First Vice Minister of the Ministry of Science and ICT, and included officials from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission, as well as representatives from industry.

In his keynote speech, Koo Hyuk-chae stated that the successful application of maritime nuclear energy depends not only on technological development but also on building a foundation of international trust and cooperation. South Korea expressed its commitment to actively participate in international discussions on safety, safeguards, and regulatory frameworks, and to expand cooperation with member states in areas such as technology, infrastructure, and human resource development.

During the event, participants also held discussions on the liability framework required for the introduction of maritime nuclear energy, as well as legal, regulatory, safety, and nuclear security measures. As scheduled, the delegations from participating countries will also visit the NS Savannah. Launched in 1962, the vessel is the world's first nuclear-powered merchant ship.