This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.

Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.

7 January 1997
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) approves 17 Accounting and Control & Physical Protection Regulations (AC&PP) submitted by domestic nuclear facilities. National inspections will have to be performed throughout the year that confirm and verify the inventory of nuclear materials at each facility.
—"First National Inspection Starts with Initial Inventory Verification," TCNC Newsletter, January/February 1997, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr/Newsletter/
tcncnews.htm>.

9 January 1997
The Nuclear Environment Technology Institute (NETEC) is established under the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). NETEC is responsible for managing nuclear waste, a task originally undertaken by the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI).
—Korea Electric Power Corporation, "Chŏllyŏksaŏp 100 Nyŏnsa," 27 April 2001, <http://www.kepco.co.kr/kepco_plaza/f/f2/html/f2_01_01_07_05.html>; "Nuclear Environment Technology Institute Opens," Quarterly News Highlights (Second Quarter, 1997), Korea Electric Power Corporation, <http://www.kepco.co.kr/kepco_plaza/f/f4/html/f4_01_02_26.html.

11 January 1997
The Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) and North Korea sign a contract allowing Taipower to ship up to 200,000 barrels of low-grade radioactive waste to North Korea for an estimated cost of $1,151/barrel. [Note: Seoul strongly objects to the deal out of concerns that North Korea will dump the waste in abandoned mines near the DMZ.]
—Dennis Engbarth, "North Korean Agency Agrees to Dispose of Taipower LLW," Nucleonics Week, Vol. 38, No. 3, 16 January 1997, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Environmentalists Protest Nuclear Waste Deal with North Korea," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 14 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Taiwan to Pay North Korea 69 Million Dollars to Store Nuclear Waste," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 18 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Taiwan to Send 5,000 Barrels of Nuclear Waste to Russia," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 23 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 January 1997
Dong Ah Construction Industrial Corporation partners with Samsung Corporation's construction division, and with Korea Heavy Industries & Construction Company (Hanjin) to bid for the construction of theUlchin-5 and -6 nuclear power reactors. The Korea Electric Power Corporation is expected to request bids for pre-qualified candidates on 14 March.
—"Dong Ah, Samsung Join Hands for Nuclear-Power Plant," Korea Herald, 15 January 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Chae Sŭng, "Wŏnjŏn 5 6 Hogi Ipch'al (Jjakchitgi) Kkŭnaetta," Kyunghyang Shinmun, 15 January 1997, p. 9, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

15 January 1997
Yŏnggwang-3 nuclear power reactor is temporarily shut down due to an employee's mishandling of the gauge. The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) announces that this incident is a grade 0 according to the International Atomic Energy Agency's safety standards.
—Chŏng U Ch'ŏn, "Yŏnggwangwŏnjŏn Onŭl Chaegadong/Ŏj'e Chigwŏnshilsuro Mŏmch'wŏ," Munhwa Ilbo, 16 January 1997, p. 29, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

15 January 1997
South Korean officials demand that North Korea reject plans to store nuclear waste from Taiwan in exchange for $227 million. According to the Taiwan Power Company, the nuclear wastes are "only slightly radioactive."
— Sheryl Wudunn, "North Korea Agrees to Take Taiwan Atom Waste for Cash," New York Times, 7 February 1997, p.1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "South Korea Demands North Korea Stop Importing Nuclear Waste," Associate Press, 15 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 January 1997
Ulchin-2 nuclear reactor is shut down for eight hours due to a breakdown of the main breaker.
—"Ulchinwŏnjŏn Kadong Chungdan Sago/2 Hogi 8 Shigandong'an/Ŏje," Donga Ilbo, 18 January 1997, p. 38, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Kim Chin Ku, "Ulchinwŏnjŏn 2 Hogi Isang/8 Shigandong'an Palchŏnjungdan Sago," Hangyureh Shinmun, 18 January 1997, p. 27, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

22 January 1997
South Korean Foreign Minister Yu Chong Ha warns Taiwan that Seoul will take economic and political measures to cancel a deal by which North Korea agreed to dispose of up to 200,000 barrels of Taiwanese nuclear waste in P'yŏngsan-kun—approximately 90km from the DMZ. Seoul contends that North Korea lacks the necessary technical facilities to properly dispose of the waste, and thus might cause environmental damage to the Korean Peninsula for many years to come.
—"Taiwan to Send 5,000 Barrels of Nuclear Waste to Russia," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 23 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Germany Denies Exporting Nuclear Waste to North Korea," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 24 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "North Korean Experts Arrive in Taiwan for Nuclear Waste Shipment," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 27 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Cho Kang Su, "Chŏngbu 'Puktaeman Chug'ŭm'ŭi Kŏrae Mag'ara' Tongbunsŏju," Kukmin Ilbo, 23 January 1997, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

21 January 1997
The head of South Korea's mission to the United Nations, Sŏn Chun Yŏng, is appointed president of the UN Conference on Disarmament.
—"Sun Joun-Yung Takes Presidency of Disarmament Conference," Korea Herald, 22 January 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Song T'ae Kwon, "Yuen Cheneba Kunch'ukhoeŭi Kaemak/Han'gukdaesa Ŭijangmatta," Hankook Ilbo, 22 January 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

27 January 1997
Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor begins trial operations. It is expected to begin commercial operation by late June.
—"Twelfth Reactor; Wolsong-2, Starts Trial Operations," Nuclear News, March 1997, p. 54, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Korea Electric Power Corporation, "Chŏllyŏksaŏp 100 Nyŏnsa," 27 April 2001, <http://www.kepco.co.kr/kepco_plaza/f/f2/html/f2_01_01_07_05.html>.

31 January 1997
South Korea threatens to abandon the KEDO light water reactor project if North Korea takes delivery of nuclear waste from Taiwan. Protesting the recently signed contract between Taipower and North Korea, South Korean Prime Minister Lee Su Sŏng warns that if the contract is realized, "it would be difficult for the National Assembly to approve the necessary expenditures to provide the reactors to the North." [Note: Since the contract was signed on 11 January, South Korea has protested the deal, contending that North Korea does not have the necessary facilities to safely dispose of the waste.]
—Zeno Park, "South Korea May Boycott Nuclear Deal with North Korea," Agence France Presse, 31 January 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Sŏ Tong Ch'ŏl, "'Puk Haekp'yegimul Pan'ipddaen Kungmin Pulyong'/I Ch'ŏngni Kandam," Taehan Maeil, 1 February 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>

1 February 1997
Ulchin-1 and -2 nuclear power reactors are temporarily shut down due to the clogging of the rotating drum filters caused by shrimp swimming into the inlet pipes. The reactors are expected to be operational by 6 and 14 February.
—"Shrimps Close Down Nuclear Plant," Chosun Ilbo, 1 February 1997, <http://english.chosun.com>.

4 February 1997
Lee Sŭng Kon, South Korean ambassador to Austria, meets with IAEA Director General Hans Blix to discuss the planned shipment of Taiwanese nuclear waste to North Korea. Blix expresses concern and says that "South Korea and the IAEA need to discuss closely what they could do to thwart Taiwan's bid to export nuclear waste to North Korea from legal and moral viewpoints."
—Yonhap News Agency, 5 February 1997, in "South Korean Envoy Relays Concerns on Taiwan's Nuclear Waste to IAEA," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 6 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Cho Kang Su, "'Taeman Haek Chŏji Kukchegigu'e Hoso/Yuenhwan'gyŏnggyehwoek-IAEA Kaeipch'okku," Kukmin Ilbo, 6 February 1997, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

16 February 1997
After an attempt on the life of North Korean defector Lee Han Yŏng in Seoul on 15 February, the South Korean government decides to suspend the seventh visit of a reactor survey team to [Kŭmho-chigu], Shimp'o, until North Korea guarantees the team's safety. The Ministry of Unification makes the decision during an emergency meeting called by Unification Minister Kwŏn O Ki after the attack on Lee Han Yŏng.
—Yonhap News Agency, 17 February 1997, in "South Korea to Withhold Food Aid, Reactor Work Following Killing of Defector," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 18 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Vladimir Kutakhov, "S. Korea Suspends Aid to Pyongyang and All Contacts with It," ITAR-TASS, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Kyŏngsuro Chosadan P'abuk Yubo/Shimbyŏnanjyŏn Chaehwagin'dŭi Ch'ujin," Joongang Ilbo, 17 February 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

17 February 1997
In response to a North Korean letter assuring the safety of a 27-member South Korean KEDO team, Pan Ki Mun, South Korea's Senior Presidential Security Secretary, announces that South Korea intends to send the survey team to [Kŭmho-chigu], Shinp'o as planned. Pan adds that the KEDO light water project is not related to the current political tension that resulted from the attack on North Korean defector Lee Han Yŏng because the KEDO project is an international agreement. However, the negotiations between the two Koreas on the safety of the KEDO team's trip to North Korea are still underway, and no final decision has been made. [Note: The target date of 22 February is delayed to 1 March as KEDO officials await an official reply from Pyongyang that it will strictly abide by the protocol signed in 1996 granting immunity and consular protection to all personnel working on the light water reactor project.]
—Yonhap News Agency, 17 February 1997, in "South to Join Food Aid Plan to North, Continue Reactor Work Despite Assassination Attempt," BBC Summary of World Reports, 19 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 19 February 1997, in "Nuclear Body Asks North Korea to Abide Strictly by Protection Protocol," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 20 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Team to Head to North Korea to Survey Site for Nuclear Reactors," Agence France Presse, 20 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Jong Ku, "'Indojŏk Taebukchiwŏn Kyesok Kyŏngsurojosadando P'agyŏn'/Pan Ki Mun Oegyoanbosusŏk," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 18 February 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

17 February 1997
The chairman of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) announces the desire to use nuclear fuel reprocessed in other countries as fuel for South Korea's power plants. In addition, the chairman mentioned France and the UK as possible suppliers.
—"KEPCO Plans to Use Reprocessed Nuclear Energy from Abroad," Chosun Ilbo, 17 February 1997, <http://english.chosun.com>.

18 February 1997
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) and Hyundai Construction Company agree to delay construction of the Yŏnggwang-5 and -6 nuclear power reactors due to temporary cancellation of the construction permits by the local government in Yŏnggwang-kun, South Chŏlla Province. The original date to complete construction was June 2000 and June 2002, but this will extend the completion dates to April and December 2002.
—"Completion of S Korean Nuclear Reactors to Be Delayed," Asia Pulse, 18 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Yŏnggwangwŏnjŏn 5 6 Hogi 2002 Nyŏnnae Modu Chun'gong," Munhwa Ilbo, 18 February 1997, p. 12, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

19 February 1997
A cargo ship carrying 15 tons of equipment to be used by the seventh KEDO site inspection team departs Pusan, South Korea on its way to Najin [Nasŏn], North Korea. From Najin the equipment will be transported by rail to the proposed light water reactor construction site near Shinp'o. The equipment reportedly includes five drilling machines and 11 pumps.
—"Ship with Nuke Inspection Equipment Leaves for N. Korea," Japan Economic Newswire, 19 February 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 February 1997
Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor temporarily shuts down due to a leak of 18 tons of heavy water. The leak occurs around 7:00 pm during a trial test of the reactor, which is expected to be completed by June.
—Chang Yŏng T'ae, "Wŏlsŏngwŏnjŏn Chungsu Daryangnuch'ul/Chŏnghwajangch'i Chakdong'andwae Chaksanŭn Miryanghamyu 2 Hogi," Segye Ilbo, 1 March 1997, p. 23, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

5 March 1997
Delegates from the United States, South Korea and North Korea meet in New York to discuss the proposed four-party peace talks. The US, South Korean, and North Korean delegations are respectively headed by Charles Kartman, Principle Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Song Yŏng Shik, South Korean Assistant Foreign Minister, and Kim Kye Kwan, North Korean Vice Foreign Minister. The South Korean delegation suggests that North Korea could receive economic assistance, food aid, and more cooperation on the light water reactor project if Pyongyang participated in the four-party talks. During the five-hour meeting, described by all sides as "serious and sincere," the North Korean delegation listens to the US and South Korean proposal for the peace talks, which would also include China. After the briefing, the North Korean delegation expresses interest in the proposal and returns to Pyongyang for consultations.
—Norman Kemster, "N. Korea Hears Peace Proposal from South, U.S.," Los Angeles Times, 6 March 1997, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yu Haye Chu, "Puk 4 Chahwoedam Surakttaen Kyŏng'wŏn/New York Sŏlmyŏnghwoe," Segye Ilbo, 6 March 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Cho Chae Yong, "4 Chahwoedam Chŏnmang Palgajŏ/New York Sŏlmyŏnghwoe," Hankook Ilbo, 6 March 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Lee Byŏng Sŏn, "Puk, 4 Chahwoedam Ipchang Yubo," Munhwa Ilbo, 6 March 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Lee Kŏn Yŏng, "Puk, '4 Chahwoedam Ch'amsŏk'/4 Chasŏlmyŏnghwoesŏ Kŭngjŏng Panŭng," Taehan Maeil, 6 March 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

6 March 1997
The South Korean Foreign Ministry announces that the United States and South Korea will cancel the Team Spirit combined military exercise for the fourth consecutive year.
—"S. Korea, U.S. to Skip 'Team Spirit' Exercises Again," Japan Economic Newswire, 6 March 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 March 1997
Kwŏn Yŏng Hae, director of South Korea's Agency for National Security Planning, says that "it is believed North Korea is trying to import Taiwan's nuclear waste as a means of camouflage for the disposal of its own nuclear waste."
—Seoul Sinmun, 12 March 1997, p. 2, in "South Korean Official Says North's Import of Taiwan Nuclear Waste 'Camouflage,'" BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 13 March 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Chin Kyŏng Ho, "Pug'ŭi Taemanhaek Panip Kyehwoek/Chach'ye Haekch'ŏri Ŭijang Soksyem/Kwŏn Angibujang," Taehan Maeil, 12 March 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

12 March 1997
The third Permanent Coordinating Group (PCG) meeting between the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) and the US Department of Energy is held in South Korea. During the meeting, MOST officials inform the US that South Korea will soon begin its national safeguard inspection program for nuclear transparency in 1997 and requests continued US support. The two countries discuss the MOST-DOE Arrangement, the US-Korea Scientific and Technology Cooperation Agreement, and progress made on DUPIC (Direct Use of spent PWR fuel in CANDU reactors) safeguards.
—"Third PCG Meeting Held in Seoul," TCNC Newsletter, March/April 1997, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

April 1997
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) overrules the decision by the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to begin reprocessing spent fuel. MOST officials want KEPCO to wait until market uranium prices fall, and to look for non-US Department of Energy origin uranium to make South Korea less dependent on the US. The US maintains the right to prevent South Korea from reprocessing US based uranium through a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement between the two countries signed after the Korean War, and a classified document stating US nonproliferation objectives created in 1994 under the Clinton administration. [Note: Under the terms of the 1992 "Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula", South Korea agreed not to reprocess spent fuel. Furthermore, the US-ROK bilateral agreement concerning civilian uses of atomic energy signed in 1972 prohibits South Korea from reprocessing without permission from the United States.]
—Mark Hibbs, "ROK Told KEPCO to Postpone Offshore Reprocessing Quest," Nuclear Fuel, 21 April 1997, p. 12, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

April 1997
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) hires a US law firm, Hogan & Hartson to lobby on its behalf to allow South Korea to reprocess spent nuclear fuel abroad.
—Mark Hibbs, "No Spent Fuel Reprocessing, New KEPCO CEO Chang Declares," Nuclear Fuel, 19 October 1998, p. 5, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Donga Ilbo, 15 July 1998, in "Overseas Nuke Fuel Reprocessing Scrapped," FBIS Document ID: FTS19980916001302.

Early April 1997
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) plans to secure a new site for two new nuclear power reactors to be operational by 2010, but the ministry has not publicly disclosed the possible locations. MOTIE officials are working with local governments to gain political acceptance to avoid problems such as those seen in trying to obtain construction licenses for the Yŏnggwang-5 and -6 nuclear power plants last year. [Note: In 1993, the Ministry of Energy and Resources and the Ministry of Commerce were merged and became the Ministry of Trade and Industry. In 1998, when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs became the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Ministry of Trade and Industry changed its name to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy.]
—Mark Hibbs, "ROK Seeks New East Coast Site to Host Two Reactors by 2010," Nucleonics Week, 10 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

Early April 1997
The Russian firm Elemash signs an agreement with South Korea to supply nuclear fuel for South Korea's nuclear power plants.
—Alexandr Rubtsov, "Russian Nuclear Power Engineering Manufacturers Have to Count on Foreign Contracts," BizEkon News, 15 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

1 April 1997
The Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor is connected to the power grid and begins generating electricity.
—"International Briefs," Nuclear News, May 1997, p. 50, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Korea Electric Power Corporation, "Chŏllyŏksaŏp 100 Nyŏnsa," 27 April 2001, <http://www.kepco.co.kr/kepco_plaza
/f/f2/html/f2_01_01_07_05.html>, "Wolsung Nuclear Plant No. 2 Generator Begins Operations," Chosun Ilbo, 4 April 1997, <http://english.chosun.com>.

3 April 1997
During a press conference, the CEO of Cogema, a French firm providing services related to nuclear power generation, names South Korea and Taiwan as potential markets for reprocessing and recycling of spent fuel. The US has strongly opposed any plans for these countries to begin reprocessing.
—Mark Hibbs, "KEPCO Wants to Reprocess Offshore, Take Back MOX and Recycle PU, REPU," Nuclear Fuel, 7 April 1997, p. 3, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Ann MacLachlan, "Cogema's 1996 Results 'Respectable', But No 'Source of Joy', Syrota Says," Nuclear Fuel, 7 April 1997, p. 4, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9-15 April 1997
A KEDO delegation travels to North Korea for working-level talks on preparations for the groundbreaking at the proposed light water reactor construction site. The 54 member delegation meets with North Korean government officials in Shinp'o. Upon returning to Seoul, Ch'oe Yŏng Jin, head of the delegation, tells reporters that KEDO and North Korea reached an agreement on entry and exit procedures for personnel working on the project. Cho'oe also reports progress in negotiations on wages for North Korean workers. However, Ch'oe says more negotiations are necessary before breaking ground at the construction site. [Note: This KEDO delegation, which travels aboard the South Korean ship Hannara-ho, is the first to travel directly to North Korea by ship. In July 1996, KEDO and North Korea signed a protocol opening four transportation links—two by sea and two by air—between the North and South for materials and personnel related to the light water reactor project.]
—"KEDO Delegation to Travel by Sea to North Korea," Agence France Presse, 4 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO Visit to Pyongyang Successful," Xinhua News Agency, 16 April 199 7, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; KBS Television (Seoul), 16 April 1997, in "Negotiating Team Says Reactor Project Expected to Be Carried Out Smoothly," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 18 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Chŏng Yŏn Uk, "KEDO Shilmuhyŏpsangdan 54 Myŏng/O'nŭl 'Ch'ŏtpaekkil Ippuk'," Donga Ilbo, 9 April 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Lee Mi Suk, "Pangbuk Kyŏngsurohyŏbŭidan Kwihwan," Munhwa Ilbo, 16 April 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

14 April 1997
KEDO selects four South Korean companies—Hyundai Engineering & Construction Company, Dong Ah Industrial Company, Daewoo Corporation, and Korea Heavy Industry & Construction Company—to construct preliminary facilities for the light water reactor project. The companies' work involves building offices and living quarters for personnel, constructing roads between Yanghwa port and the reactor site in [Kŭmho-chigu], Shinp'o, and securing reliable sources for drinking water and electricity.
—Yonhap News Agency, 14 April 1997, in "Firms Selected for First-Phase Work on Light-Water Reactor Project," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 15 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Lee Kwang Hee, "Hyundai Kŏnsŏl Tŭng 4 Kaesa Puk Kyŏngsuro Kongsa Matt'a," Chosun Ilbo, 15 April 1997, p. 13, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

15 April 1997
According to the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) misclassified the 17 January 1997 incident at the Ulchin-2 nuclear power reactor. KEPCO classified the incident as a grade 0 according to the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) safety standards when in fact it was a grade 1.
—Ch'oe Su Mok, "Hanjŏn Wŏnjŏnsago Tŭnggŭp Ch'okso/Kwagich'ŏ, 1 Wŏl Ulchinsago Sanghyangjojŏng," Donga Ilbo, 15 April 1997, p. 35, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

16-21 April 1997
Representatives from North Korea meet with representatives from the United States and South Korea in New York to present Pyongyang's reply to the 5 March joint briefing on the proposed four-party talks. Kim Kye Kwan, head of the North Korean delegation, says that the confidence needed for the peace talks has not yet been built. Thus, he suggests more rounds of negotiations with the United States and South Korea before the actual peace talks begin.
—"Head of DPRK Delegation on 'Four-Way Talks'," Korean Central News Agency, 24 April 1997, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.

23 April 1997
Samsung Corporation's construction division is awarded a contract jointly with Dong Ah Construction Company and the Korea Heavy Industry and Construction Company to build Ulchin-5 and 6 nuclear power reactors. This is the first nuclear power plant project undertaken by the Samsung Corporation According to the $90 million contract, Samsung Corporation holds 20% and is to lead the construction of key components of the Ulchin power plants.
—"S. Korea's Samsung Set to Move Into Nuclear Power Market," Asia Pulse, 23 April 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Chang Hak Man, "Ulchin 5 6 Hogi Kongsach'amyŏ Palp'an/Samsŏngmulsan Kimhŏnch'ul Kŏnsŏlbumunsajang," Hankook Ilbo, 24 April 1997, p. 9, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

25 April 1997
Ulchin-1 and -2 nuclear power reactors are temporarily shut-down for approximately 7.5 hours due to shrimp clogging the intake water pipes. A similar incident occurred in early February, and company officials site the area in which the Ulchin plants are located as the problem. According the company officials, cold and warm water meet near the power plants and the cold water current carries shrimp and jelly fish.
—"Shrimp Stops Nuclear Power Plant for 7 ½ Hours," Chosun Ilbo, 24 April 1997, <http://english.chosun.com/>.

Early May 1997
During an interview with the Yonhap News Agency, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director-general candidate Chung Kun Mo announces his plans to continue running without the support of the South Korean government. According to Chung, US scientists are urging him to continue his candidacy and do not understand why the South Korean government no longer supports him in his effort.
—Yonhap News Agency, "Nuclear Amb. Chung Not to Withdraw From Race for IAEA Director General," Korea Times, 5 May 1997, p.2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

Early May 1997
President Kim Young Sam orders the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to make sure Chung Kun Mo withdraws from the race for director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The South Korean government originally supported Chung's candidacy, but changed positions after opposition from the US. The South Korean government fears Chung's campaign will interfere with the national interest and its relationship with the IAEA.
—"Chung Pressed to Withdraw Bid for Top IAEA Post," Korea Herald, 5 May 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

12-13 May 1997
The KEDO Executive Board meets in Tokyo and decides to allow the European Atomic Energy Community (EAEC) join KEDO as a board member. The board, including representatives from the United States, Japan and South Korea, also decides to begin construction of peripheral facilities for the light water reactor project in mid-July.
—"KEDO to Give Board Membership to EU," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 13 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO to Begin Construction of Support Facilities in July," Japan Economic Newswire, 13 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

Mid 1997
Chung Kun Mo, the South Korean candidate for the IAEA Director General position accuses Mohamed Elbaradeli of not following IAEA procedures for official nominations, and accuses the US of having manipulated the process by which Elbaradeli was selected. Chung was strongly supported by South Korea's nuclear industry, but failed to gain the support of the South Korean government. In addition, the US and China opposed Chung's candidacy due to fears that his position would conflict with efforts to keep North Korea's nuclear weapons program under control.
—Mark Hibbs, "IAEA Board Poised to Elect Elbaradei to Succeed Blix," Nuclear Fuel, 2 June 1997, p. 2, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Mark Hibbs, "Chung Claims IAEA Chief Election Marred by Improper Procedures," Nucleonics Week, 12 June 1997, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

25-27 May 1997
IAEA Director General Hans Blix travels to Seoul to discuss North Korea's nuclear program and Taiwan's planned shipment of nuclear waste to North Korea. Blix promises that the IAEA will continue to make efforts to ensure the transparency of North Korea's past and present nuclear activities. He also reaffirms that the planned shipment of Taiwanese nuclear waste is comprised solely of low-grade nuclear material and thus not prohibited for international transportation.
—Debbie Kuo, "IAEA Reaffirms Taiwan's Nuke Waste is Low-Grade," Central News Agency, 27 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 27 May 1997, in "South's President Discusses North's Nuclear Programme with IAEA Head," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 28 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 27 May 1997, in "IAEA Head Promises Efforts for 'Transparency' of North's Nuclear Program," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 28 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

26 May 1997
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) announces plans for South Korea to develop the technology to use a small, 300MW(e) nuclear power reactor to convert seawater into freshwater. MOST plans to develop this new reactor and technology by 2002.
—Ch'oe Su Mok, "Wŏnjaryŏk Iyong Haesudamsuhwa Ch'ujin/300MW Kŭp Chungsohyŏng Wŏnjaro Kaebal," Donga Ilbo, 27 May 1997, p. 35, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

28 May 1997
KEDO contracts with Korea Telecom to provide all of the telecommunication links between South Korea and the light water reactor construction site in [Kŭmho-chigu], Shinp'o.
—KBS Radio (Seoul), 29 May 1997, in "North-South Telecommunications to Be Set Up to Facilitate Reactor Project," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 30 May 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2 June 1997
The Yŏnggwang-4 nuclear power reactor is temporarily shut-down due to a leak in the micro tube of the secondary cooling system.
—"Younggwang Power Station No. 4 Temporarily Stops," Chosun Ilbo, 2 June 1997, <http://english.chosun.com>.

22-25 June 1997
The Committee to Evaluate and Verify Physical Feasibility of the Next Generation Superconducting Nuclear Fusion Research Apparatus (KSTAR) meets to discuss research results and provide recommendations. The Committee is comprised of experts from Japan, Germany, the Naval Surface Warfare Research Laboratory in the US, and the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor group. The committee agrees that the development of KSAR will contribute to worldwide fusion R&D efforts. In addition, the members express satisfaction with the development of the project. [Note: KSTAR is also referred to as the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research.]
—Yi Kyong Su, "Seoul Wonjaryok Sanop", August 1997, in "Report on KSTAR Superconducting Nuclear Fusion Project," FBIS Document ID" FTS19971103000401.

1 July 1997
Construction of the Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor is completed. [Note: The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) and the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) cite 1 July 1997. However, the Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP) cites June 1997.]
— Ministry of Science and Technology, <http://www.most.go.kr/index_e.html>; Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), "Han'guk Suryŏg'wŏnjaryŏk (Chu) Wŏlsŏng'wŏnjaryŏk Ponbu," <http://www.khnp.co.kr/wolsong
/sub/greet/greet.htm>; Korea Electric Power Corporation, "Chŏllyŏksaŏp 100 Nyŏnsa," 27 April 2001, <http://www.kepco.co.kr/kepco_plaza
/f/f2/html/f2_01_01_07_05.html>.

1 July 1997
The Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor begins commercial operation. Wŏlsŏng-2 is a 700MW(e) pressurized heavy water reactor manufactured by Atomic Energy of Canada, Limited (AECL) and the Korea Heavy Industries and Construction Company (Hanjung).
—"Wolsung-2 Reactor Starts Commercial Operation," Nuclear News, August 1997, p. 31, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Korea Hydro & Nuclear Co., Ltd.(KHNP), "Han'guk Suryŏg'wŏnjaryŏk (Chu) Wŏlsŏng'wŏnjaryŏk Ponbu," <http://www.khnp.co.kr/korea_map/korea.html>.

7-9 July 1997
The Sixth ROK-IAEA Safeguards Review Meeting is held in Seoul. During the meeting, South Korea and the IAEA agree to take steps to jointly use NDA (non-destructive assay) equipment seals by early 1998 and to promote cooperation in the joint use of other safeguard equipment.
—"Closer Cooperation with IAEA Promoted at the 6th Korea-IAEA Safeguards Review Meeting," TCNC Newsletter, July/August 1997, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

10 July 1997
South Korea and Russia conclude a meeting in which the two sides agree that Russia should repay in kind by the end of 1998 loans of $391 million. According to the agreement, Russia will deliver enriched uranium, steel products, aluminum, electrolytic copper and helicopters as repayment. Under a previous agreement made between the two countries in 1995, Russia was to repay part of its loans with weapons. However, due to US pressure and inter ministerial conflicts, the South Korean government decides not to receive any Russian weapons as a form of loan payment.
—Yonhap News Agency, 10 July 1997, in "US Allegedly Pressuring ROK on Russian Loan Repayment," FBIS Document ID: FTS19970709001722; "Imports of Russian Weapons on loan to be Suspended," Korea Times, 11 July 1997, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

1 August 1997
National safeguard inspections for nuclear facilities begin with the HANARO research reactor. Seven nuclear related facilities are to undergo inspections by the end of the year including the Korea Nuclear Fuel Company (KNFC), Kori-4, Yŏnggwang-4, Wŏlsŏng-1, Ulchin-1 and a post irradiation examination facility.
—"National Inspection Commenced with HANARO on August 1," TCNC Newsletter, July/August 1997, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

19 August 1997
KEDO holds the groundbreaking ceremony in [Kŭmho-chigu], Shinp'o, marking the start of construction on the first of two light water reactors. The ceremony is attended by over 200 people, including Stephen Bosworth, executive director of KEDO, Chang Sun Sop, chief of South Korea's Office of Planning for the Light-Water Reactor Project, Hŏ Jong, North Korean ambassador-at-large, and various other representatives from KEDO member states and contractors working on the project. Bosworth touts the groundbreaking as "the fulfillment of a promise," but Kim Pyŏng Ki, North Korean project manager, claims that the road ahead "is still very long and twisted." After pointing out that the groundbreaking comes 18 months late, Kim says, "It's only when the two light water reactors are completed that the suspicion of the Korean people will be removed thoroughly, and confidence built between the United States and the government of the DPRK."
—"Groundbreaking Ceremony for Reactor Held in N. Korea," Japan Economic Newswire, 19 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO Mission Departs for DPRK to Attend Reactor Event," Xinhua News Agency, 18 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Ground-breaking Ceremony for Nuclear Reactors in N. Korea," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 19 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "North Korean Nuclear Project Launched," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 19 August 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Nuclear Power for Peace," Nuclear Engineering International, October 2000, vol. 45, no. 555, pp. 34-35; Chang Yong Hun, "<Taebuk Kyŏngsuro Kŏnsŏlgongsa Hyŏnhwang>," Yonhap News Agency, 6 December 2001, <http://www.yonhapnews.net>.

3 September 1997
A dedication ceremony is held for Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor, which is South Korea's second pressurized water reactor (PWR). Construction of the plant took 62 months and cost 1331 billion won (about $1.47 billion). According to the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), the addition of Wŏlsŏng-2 brings nuclear energy to approximately 30% of the total power generated in South Korea.
—Korean Electric Power Corporation, "Chŏllyŏksaŏp 100 Nyŏnsa," 27 April 2001, <http://www.kepco.co.kr/kepco_plaza
/f/f2/html/f2_01_01_07_05.html>; "Completion of Second Wolsung Plant Marks 10 Mil. KW in Nuclear Energy," Korea Times, 4 September 1997, p.1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; "KEPCO Dedicates Wolsung Nuclear Power Plant Unit 2," Korea Herald, 4 September 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Lee Chin, "Wŏnjŏn Wŏlsŏng 2 Hogi Jun'gong/Kungnae Tubŏnjjae Kaapjungsurohyŏng," Donga Ilbo, 4 September 1997, p.8, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

9-10 September 1997
An informal meeting of US and South Korean nuclear export control officials is held in Seoul. The main topic of discussion is the nuclear export controls of both countries and ways to obtain assurances from North Korea that it will use the supplied light water reactor equipment for peaceful purposes. In addition, participants discuss possible joint participation in other countries' nuclear programs.
—"Export Control Meeting Between Korea and US Held," TCNC Newsletter, September/October 1997, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

October 1997
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) awards a contract worth more than $20 million (Canadian dollars) to Atomic Energy of Canada, Limited (AECL) to provide additional fuel handling equipment for South Korea's CANDU reactors.
—"KEPCO N-Award for AECL," FT Energy Newsletters, 20 October 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2 October 1997
The presidential candidate of the Democratic Party, Cho Soon states at a seminar in Pusan that South Korea needs to develop the technology and capability to manufacture atomic bombs. In addition, Cho notes that neighboring countries, China and Russia both posses nuclear bombs, and Japan has the technology to manufacture them. The president of the United Liberal Democrats, Kim Jong Pil adds that Korea needs to be capable of deterring threats from possibly China and Japan once the two Koreas are unified.
—"Korea Needs to Accumulate Tech to Manufacture Atomic Bombs," Korea Times, 3 October 1997, p.2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

9 October 1997
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announces plans to develop a small research reactor by 2002. The 100,000KW(e) reactor can be used in residential centers of 100,000 people. The total construction cost is estimated to be $200 million.
—Chosun Ilbo, 9 October 1997, in "KAERI to Develop Mini Nuclear Reactor," FBIS Document ID: FTS19971009000780.

29 October 1997
South Korean officials ask Turkey to include South Korean companies in expanding Turkey's nuclear industry during a meeting to promote economic and technical trade between the two countries. South Korea is interested in being a subcontractor for Canadian companies in building the Akkuyu nuclear power plant.
—"Korea Wishes to Participate in Turkey's Nuclear Plant Project," Korea Times, 30 October 1997, p.2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; "Korea, Turkey Discuss Peaceful Use of N-Power," Korea Herald, 30 October 1997, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

4 November 1997
South Korea's Nuclear Safety Committee (NSC) passes a resolution to issue an operations permit for the Ulchin-3 nuclear power reactor. The Ulchin-3 reactor will begin operating in June 1998.
—Park Kŏn Sŭng, "Ulchin Wŏnjŏn 3 Ho Unyŏnghŏga Palgŭp/Wŏnjaryŏg'anjŏnwiwŏnhoe," Taehan Maeil, 30 October 1997, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

December 1997
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) holds a meeting to evaluate the performance of the national inspections carried out from August to December 1997. Based on the evaluation, MOST decides to expand national inspections from seven to thirteen nuclear facilities. The thirteen facilities include six light water reactors, two CANDU reactors, two fuel fabrication plants and three research facilities.
—"Feedback from Evaluation of 1997 Results," TCNC Newsletter, January/February 1998, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

12 December 1997
The South Korean government approves a five-year science and technology innovation plan. The plan calls for a 22 trillion won investment over the next five years to emphasize national R&D programs, to promote basic research and training, and to construct the science and technology infrastructure. The national R&D program includes plans to develop new technology for nuclear power.
—Chong Ch'ang Hun, Seoul Chonja Sinmun, 13 December 1997, p.1, in "5-Year National RD Plan Established," FBIS Document ID: FTS19980315000148.

16 December 1997
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announces its plan to sell 20kg of nuclear fuel to the US firm Babcock &Wilcox. The nuclear fuel was produced jointly by KAERI and the French nuclear fuel company CERCA.
—Ch'oe Su Mok, "Haeg'yŏllyojangch'i Ch'ŏt Such'ul/Wŏnjaryŏg'yŏn, Pulmiwa Kyeyak," Donga Ilbo, 17 December 1997, p. 29, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

Mid December 1997
The South Korean government decides to revise plans to construct more nuclear power reactors due to demands from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to decrease government spending in response to the Asian Financial Crisis.
—Mark Hibbs, "KEPCO Investment Plans on Hold after IMF Deal, Currency Crash," Nucleonics Week, 18 December 1997, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

	Updated September 2004