Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) has announced its partnership with Oklo, an American company specializing in small modular reactors (SMRs), to advance the development of next-generation nuclear technology—specifically, fourth-generation SMRs.
On May 23, KHNP signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Oklo at the Radiation and Health Institute in Gyeongju, and on May 26, the two parties held a follow-up meeting at KHNP headquarters to discuss concrete cooperation plans. The announcement was made on May 27.
Through this agreement, KHNP and Oklo will explore ways for KHNP to participate in the development of Oklo’s 'Aurora Powerhouse,' including standard design development and technical validation. The collaboration aims to cover various stages of commercialization, such as manufacturing feasibility assessment, constructability reviews, and establishing a supply chain for Balance of Plant (BOP) equipment.
Oklo is a pioneering company leading the commercial development of fourth-generation SMRs based on fast reactor technology in the United States. It is currently constructing the Aurora Fast Reactor, with a capacity of 75 MWe, located at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The company is working through licensing procedures with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), targeting commercial operation by the end of 2027. It plans to submit a 'Combined Operating License' (COL) by the end of this year—an integrated permit covering both construction and operation, which streamlines the approval process compared to traditional licensing.
KHNP President Hwang Joo-ho emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration, stating, “We are accelerating technological advancements to strengthen the competitiveness of our domestic i-SMR (innovative SMR) under development. To enter the rapidly growing market for safe and efficient fourth-generation SMRs, partnership with global leaders is essential.”
He added, “This collaboration will generate synergies across all stages—from design to construction and operation—and contribute to KHNP leading the next-generation nuclear power market.”
