Enhancement of International Transparency in and Acceptance of Nuclear Research and Development Programs in Korea

In this project the following scope and contents were formulated. First, this study focused on the establishment of a professional network for ROK-U.S. nuclear cooperation by identifying and inviting key personnel who have been involved in the ROK-U.S. nuclear cooperation agreement, leading U.S. nuclear technology experts, and members of important organizations associated with nuclear non-proliferation. Joint workshops and seminars were organized and held and a series of site visits to nuclear facilities were made. Second, an in-depth analysis was performed on U.S. policies on nuclear energy and nuclear non-proliferation, and on the current status of the nuclear industry, which has a substantial impact on the development of future nuclear systems in Korea. In addition, a multi-approach strategy toward ROK-U.S. nuclear cooperation was proposed and evaluated by analyzing U.S. Congressional positions on nuclear cooperation agreements with other countries. Third, justifiable reasoning for a strategic ROK-U.S. nuclear cooperation partnership and a rational for its enhancement were formulated and communicated to appropriate personnel and organizations so that joint development can be sustained for nuclear technology associated with advanced fuel cycle technology. In preparation for future ROK-U.S. negotiations on bilateral cooperation for pyro-processing technology development, which is to start immediately after the completion of the 10 year joint fuel cycle study (JFCS), it is also necessary to put every effort toward cultivating a favorable international environment between the two countries by strengthening the basis of ROK-U.S. nuclear cooperation, promoting the understanding of the Korean nuclear program, and strengthening analysis of the U.S. nuclear energy and nonproliferation policy trends.