Review
- Journal of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Waste Technology
- Volume 23(2); 2025
- Article
Letter
Journal of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Waste Technology 2025;23(2):297-301. Published online: Jun, 30, 2025
DOI : doi.org/10.7733/jnfcwt.2025.014
Pre-Licensing Regulatory Process for Deep Geological Disposal Facility of High-Level Radioactive Waste
1Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety, 62, Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34142, Republic of Korea
2Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, 50, Unist-gil, Eonyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
3Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, 111, Daedeok-daero 989beon-gil, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34057, Republic of Korea
4Korea Radioactive Waste Agency, 19, Chunghyocheon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do 38062, Republic of Korea
5Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd., 1655, Bulguk-ro, Munmudaewang-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do 38120, Republic of Korea
6KEPCO Nuclear Fuel, Co., Ltd., 242, Daedeok-daero 989beon-gil, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34057, Republic of Korea
Abstract
Deep geological disposal facilities require early regulatory involvement to ensure safety, transparency, and efficiency throughout their long development process. Leading countries, such as Finland, Sweden, France, and the UK, actively engage regulatory bodies from the early stages, following international guidelines set by the IAEA and OECD/NEA. However, in Korea, the current regulatory framework lacks a legal basis for pre-licensing reviews, highlighting the need for institutional reforms and clear agreements between regulators and operators. A phased regulatory approach which covers pre-site selection, site selection, and post-selection stages can enhance project stability and minimize risks. To successfully implement early regulatory involvement, Korea must revise its legal framework, develop strategic roadmaps, and foster transparent communication with stakeholders.
Keywords
Deep geological disposal, Regulatory framework, Pre-licensing, Long-term safety