Kim Jeong-kwan, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, stated on October 29 that he respects Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power's decision to end negotiations with the Daewoo Engineering & Construction and Doosan Enerbility consortium regarding the construction contract for the Dukovany nuclear power plant in the Czech Republic.
In a post on his social media, Kim wrote, "We will complete the Czech nuclear power project without wavering." He noted that while Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and the consortium had engaged in lengthy negotiations over contract terms, they ultimately could not reach an agreement. He expressed disappointment, saying, "While the autonomy of negotiations and business judgments between companies should be respected, it is regrettable as these companies worked together to secure the Czech nuclear project."
He emphasized that nuclear power projects are a "century-long business" involving trust from contract to construction, operation, and completion. To meet the key timelines of the Czech nuclear project, including the construction permit application in April 2027 and the start of site preparation in January 2029, he stressed that there can be no further delays.
Kim added that Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power is preparing to select a new construction company while also taking measures to minimize business interruptions by performing some essential tasks directly until then. He assured that the government would closely cooperate with the Czech government and Team Korea to monitor the project's progress and actively support its successful implementation.
He remarked that nuclear construction is a large-scale project where multiple companies contribute their expertise from design to equipment supply, construction, and commissioning. He stated that this experience would serve as a lesson to reassess and strengthen Team Korea's collaborative framework.
Kim concluded by affirming, "Even if unexpected difficulties arise, we will remain steadfast and fulfill our responsibilities to the end. We will keep our promises with the Czech Republic and uphold trust in South Korea's nuclear industry."
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power announced the end of negotiations with the Daewoo Engineering & Construction and Doosan Enerbility consortium earlier that morning, citing an inability to reach an agreement on key contract terms.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.