The Fukushima accident and its implications for Korea

ABSTRACT

The recent tragedy of Fukushima has raised concerns and doubts over nuclear energy. In addition, maturing of democracy and the possibility of a nuclear accident triggered by uncontrollable natural disasters compel governments to win public acceptance. This research analyzes the possible options for Korea using the public acceptance framework. The framework shows that it is important to respond quickly, gather relevant information, and to concisely deliver the information to the public. It also shows that governments should apply strict regulations. The framework implied that information disclosure and transparency were the most important lessons. Since enhanced safety can lead to reduced perceived risk, the development of Generation IV and System-integrated modular advanced reactor technologies has been suggested to gain public acceptance. The results of preliminary economic feasibility study, using real options method, have been reported and are positive.

KEYWORDS:

• Fukushima accident
• Generation IV technologies
• Korea
• nuclear energy
• public acceptance

Funding

We would like to express our gratitude to KAERI (Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute) for funding. This research would have been impossible without its support.

Notes

¹ D. H. Han, “Reactor system technology” (paper presented at the NURE Policy and Technology Conference, Ilsan, Korea, 2011).

² GIF, “A Technology Roadmap for Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems,” (2002).

Additional information

Funding

We would like to express our gratitude to KAERI (Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute) for funding. This research would have been impossible without its support.