Fortified Against Flight: South Korea Saeul-3 Reactor Approval for 2026 Launch
South Korea's nuclear watchdog approved the operation of the Saeul-3 reactor on Dec. 30, 2025. Featuring 137cm thick walls to resist aircraft attacks, the unit is set for a 2026 launch.
A nuclear fortress designed to withstand direct aircraft impacts is finally ready for action. According to Yonhap, South Korea's nuclear watchdog, the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC), officially gave the green light for the Saeul-3 reactor's operation on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.
Nuclear Safety Commission Grants South Korea Saeul-3 Reactor Approval
The long-awaited decision came after a two-week delay following the commission's initial meeting. The Saeul-3 unit, a homegrown APR1400 reactor located in the southeastern port city of Ulsan, has been under construction since 2016. Now, it's set to begin a six-month pilot run before its commercial debut in 2026.
APR1400 Evolution and Aircraft-Resistant Engineering
What sets Saeul-3 apart is its massive defensive engineering. It's the first South Korean reactor specifically built to survive aircraft attacks, featuring containment walls 137 centimeters thick—about 15 centimeters thicker than previous models. This enhancement reflects a significant shift in safety priorities for modern nuclear infrastructure.
- Storage Capacity: Features a spent fuel storage system capable of holding 60 years of waste, covering its entire design life.
- Identity Shift: Formerly known as Kori-5, the unit was renamed in 2022 as part of the new Saeul complex branding.
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