Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Changwon mayor, Czech envoy discuss nuclear, energy cooperation
Acting Changwon Mayor Jang Geum-yong, left, shakes hands with Czech Ambassador to Korea Ivan Jancarek at Changwon City Hall, Wednesday. Courtey of Changwon City Government
By Kim Hyun-bin
Acting Changwon Mayor Jang Geum-yong met with Czech Ambassador to Korea Ivan Jancarek at Changwon City Hall to discuss cooperation in the nuclear and energy industries on Wednesday.
The Czech Republic, which operates the Dukovany and Temelin nuclear power plants, is widely recognized for its global competitiveness in the nuclear sector.
Changwon has built expertise in next-generation nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors, led by Doosan Enerbility, one of Korea’s major nuclear equipment manufacturers.
During the meeting, Jang and the ambassador agreed to explore sustainable cooperation models not only in nuclear power but also in culture, academia and youth exchanges.
Before the meeting, Jancarek delivered a special lecture at Changwon National University titled “Economic Cooperation Focused on Nuclear Power Plant Construction Agreements between the Czech Republic and Korea.” He highlighted potential ways Czech nuclear technology and Korea’s industrial capabilities can complement each other.
“Czechia is an important partner in the global nuclear industry and there is significant potential to expand cooperation into other fields,” Jang said. “We will work to strengthen these ties and create new growth opportunities.”
In July 2024, the Czech government selected Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power as the preferred bidder to build two new reactor units at the Dukovany nuclear power plant, beating out France’s EDF.
The deal, valued at about 407 billion Czech koruna ($19 billion), calls for construction to begin in 2029, with the first unit expected to start operations around 2036.
The project is viewed as Korea’s first major reactor export to Europe and a gateway for Korean nuclear companies seeking a broader foothold in the European market.