Kyung Hee University Concludes Advanced Reactor Short Course

Kyung Hee University's Net-Zero Energy Infrastructure Convergence Center concluded its '2026 Advanced Reactor Summer Short Course' held from July 14-16 at the international campus. The program, supported by the Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning, drew over 150 participants from the nuclear industry, research institutions, and academia.

As nations prioritize advanced reactor development, including small modular reactors (SMRs), for carbon neutrality and energy security, the need for skilled professionals has become paramount. This marks the second year Kyung Hee University has offered this course to meet this demand.

The curriculum systematically covered key advanced reactor designs such as innovative SMRs (i-SMR), sodium-cooled fast reactors (SFR), high-temperature gas reactors (HTGR), heat pipe reactors (HPR), and molten salt reactors (MSR). It also delved into essential aspects for commercialization, including reactor and system design, fuel and material technology, modeling and demonstration testing, nuclear non-proliferation, and licensing frameworks like the U.S. 10 CFR Part 53.

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The global nuclear industry is transitioning from large-scale reactors to an era where various advanced reactors coexist. To lead the global market, technological development must be accompanied by the cultivation of specialized personnel.

Experts from universities, research bodies, and industry, including KAIST, led 18 lectures. Participants engaged in discussions and Q&A sessions, exploring the latest technological trends and industry challenges. A site visit to Kyung Hee University's reactor center allowed attendees to observe research reactor facilities and radiation utilization research facilities, enhancing their practical understanding of operational environments and safety management.

Professor Kim Hyung-dae, head of the Net-Zero Energy Infrastructure Convergence Center, emphasized the global shift towards advanced reactors and the necessity of nurturing specialized talent alongside technological development. He stated the center's commitment to expanding advanced reactor education, fostering international collaboration, and conducting policy research to bolster the competitiveness of South Korea's nuclear industry.

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We will contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of the domestic nuclear industry by expanding advanced reactor specialized education and linking it with international cooperation and technology policy research.