Exclusive: South Korea’s Yoon Confident Czech Nuclear Plant Deal Will Be Completed Despite Legal Concerns, By Reuters

By Hyonhee Shin

SEOUL – South Korea remains optimistic about navigating any challenges related to a multi-billion dollar project for constructing a nuclear plant in the Czech Republic, despite appeals against the agreement from EDF and Westinghouse, according to President Yoon Suk Yeol.

In a written response to inquiries prior to his visit to the Czech Republic from September 19-22, Yoon indicated that his trip aims to ensure the smooth finalization of the contract, emphasizing that the project’s success holds "paramount importance."

In July, the Czech Republic selected Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) to develop two new nuclear power units, marking its largest energy investment initiative to date. However, Westinghouse’s appeal, which claims that KHNP lacks the necessary licensing to export reactors that utilize U.S. technology, presents a potential hurdle. Additionally, EDF has filed an appeal following its loss in the final round of bidding.

Yoon stated that both Seoul and Washington are striving to foster a collaborative environment among businesses in the nuclear energy sector to resolve any intellectual property disputes and accelerate cooperation. He expressed confidence that these efforts would lead to a swift resolution of any arising issues and reassured that there is no cause for concern regarding the construction project in the Czech Republic.

Yoon’s visit coincides with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and the Czech Republic. He is scheduled to meet with Czech President Petr Pavel and Prime Minister Petr Fiala and will tour nuclear energy companies in Plzen.

SECURITY TIES

Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has aimed to strengthen security partnerships with European nations and NATO, in light of increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. South Korea and the United States have accused Pyongyang of supplying missiles and munitions to Moscow for use in the ongoing war in Ukraine, allegedly in exchange for economic and military assistance. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied these claims.

Recently, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles, marking the second such test within a week. South Korean military officials remarked that last week’s test involved a new 600-mm multiple launch rocket system, which they suggested could be intended for export to Russia.

During his visit, Yoon plans to discuss joint strategies with Czech officials to counter North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and its growing military trade with Russia. He noted that the illicit military and economic cooperation between these nations underscores the urgency for South Korea to strengthen ties with European countries that share similar values.

Following the establishment of a strategic partnership treaty between North Korea and Russia, Yoon’s administration has hinted at the possibility of providing lethal aid to Ukraine if Moscow offers advanced weaponry to Pyongyang, a potential pivot from their current stance focused on humanitarian aid.

While Yoon did not define specific boundaries, he asserted that North Korea and Russia would face consequences if they jeopardized South Korea’s security. He asserted, "Any actions threatening the safety and lives of our people cannot be tolerated."