Daewoo E&C announced on the 31st that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with KEPCO Nuclear Fuel on the 28th to strengthen joint development and technological cooperation in domestic and international nuclear power projects.
The signing ceremony held at Daewoo E&C's headquarters in Euljiro was attended by Kim Bo-hyun, CEO of Daewoo E&C, and Jeong Chang-jin, president of KEPCO Nuclear Fuel. The two companies decided to strengthen mutual cooperation through joint research, technology exchange, and the operation of consultative bodies related to domestic and international nuclear power and nuclear fuel businesses.
KEPCO Nuclear Fuel is the only company in South Korea specializing in the design and manufacture of nuclear fuel, supplying all the nuclear fuel needed for the operation of nuclear power plants and actively entering overseas markets, including exporting nuclear fuel necessary for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) nuclear power plant.
Daewoo E&C has accumulated successful experiences by carrying out projects together with KEPCO Nuclear Fuel, including the establishment of domestic nuclear fuel manufacturing facilities, and has participated in obtaining standard design approval for the Korean small modular reactor (SMR) known as SMART.
Since starting the main equipment construction for the Wolsong Nuclear Power Plant Units 3 and 4 in 1991, Daewoo E&C has been involved in about 30 nuclear-related projects, including the first overseas export of a research reactor to Jordan, radioactive waste disposal facilities in Gyeongju, and the construction of a new research reactor for export in Gijang.
Based on its experience in nuclear construction, Daewoo E&C signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power in 2023 for the development of innovative SMRs and has been strengthening its network with companies possessing nuclear-related technologies, such as establishing cooperation with KEPCO KPS in the SMR field and preparing to participate as the prime contractor for a nuclear power project in the Czech Republic.
A representative of Daewoo E&C noted, "Daewoo E&C is the only construction company in the country that can provide total solutions across all areas of nuclear energy, including design, construction, maintenance, and decommissioning. We will actively enter new nuclear and SMR projects to elevate the status of K-construction both domestically and internationally."