Regulatory Framework for Permanent Shut-down and Decommissioning of Nuclear Power Plant in Korea - 18101
Kori Unit 1, the first commercial NPP in Korea which was commissioned in 1978, was put on permanent shutdown for decommissioning on June 2017, after 40 years of operation. For permanent shutdown of the Kori Unit 1, an operation change permit was submitted in 2016 prior to the expiration since the NSA (Nuclear Safety Act) recognizes permanent shutdown as one of the operation stage. In preparation for the decommissioning of Kori Unit 1, the NSA related to decommissioning was revised and promulgated in 2015. The lower statues including Enforcement Decree and Regulation of the NSA, etc. were promptly revised to reflect decommissioning related requirements and procedures accordingly. For new NPPs, preliminary decommissioning plan is submitted and is being reviewed in the course of license review. Operating NPPs are also planning to submit the decommissioning plan by 2018 and receive approvals from Nuclear Safety and Security Commission. In case that an operator intends to decommission a nuclear installation, the operator shall apply for decommissioning and receive an approval from the NSSC. As discussed, framework for permanent shutdown and decommissioning of nuclear facilities have been well formatted by successful revision of NSA in Korea. Further detailed technical standards and regulatory guides on decommissioning will be developed to facilitate the relevant activities and ensure the nuclear safety. (authors)