Bill Gates visits South Korea to discuss SMR cooperation

Microsoft co-founder and TerraPower founder Bill Gates returned to South Korea on Thursday, marking his second visit in a year, to deepen cooperation on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Gates is scheduled to meet with key figures in the South Korean government, National Assembly, and business sector. His itinerary includes a meeting with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Friday, followed by discussions with leaders such as Chung Ki-sun, chairman of HD Hyundai, and Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group.

This visit comes shortly after TerraPower received approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in March for the construction of its next-generation reactor. South Korean companies are integral to TerraPower's global strategy. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has been selected as the preferred bidder for supplying core equipment, while SK Group is a major shareholder in TerraPower. Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power has also strengthened its partnership by acquiring shares, underscoring the significant role South Korea plays in the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technology.