4 January 2000
Researchers at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announce that they have successfully developed a free electron laser accelerator. The accelerator is 70 centimeters in diameter, four meters long and two meters high and is used to transform electronic beams into light energy and then into far infrared. According to researchers, the accelerator can be used for bioengineering research, DNA sequencing, environmental monitoring of areas harboring nuclear power plants, and atomic energy development.
—Korea Times, 4 January 2000, in "ROK Research Team Develops Device to Produce Far Infrared," FBIS Document ID: FTS20000104000831; Ham Hye Ri, "'Wŏnjŏgwoesŏn Reijŏ' Sohyŏnghwa Sŏnggong," Taehan Maeil, 5 January 2000, p. 26, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

6 January 2000
The Satellite Technology Research Center at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) reveal for the first time in public a satellite image of the Yŏngbyŏn-kun region in North Korea. The image was taken by the Uribyŏl-3 satellite which was developed completely by South Korean technology.
—Yi Ki Hhin, Tonga Ilbo, 6 January 2000, in "The Uribyol-3 Satellite Succeeds in Photographing the Yongbyon Region of North Korea," FBIS Document ID: FTS20000110000444; Lee Ki Jin, "Uribyŏl 3 Ho In'gongwisŏng, Puk'yŏngbyŏnjiyŏk Ch'walyŏng Sŏnggong," Donga Ilbo, 7 January 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

13 January 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy announces the fifth power supply plan through 2015 that includes a plan to gradually shut down old nuclear power plants starting in 2008. Kori-1 and Wŏlsŏng-1 reactors are expected to close down in 2008 and 2013 respectively.
—Yonhap News Agency, 13 January 2000, in "ROKG to Shutdown Old Nuclear Plants Starting 2008," FBIS Document ID: FTS20000113000401; "Energy: Korea Will Shut Down 2 Nuclear Units by 2013," Korean Industry Updates, 14 January 2000, p. 6, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Park Hak Yong, "Wŏnjŏn Kori 1 Ho 2008 Nyŏn P'yeswae," Munhwa Ilbo, 14 January 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

19 January 2000
The Korea Institute for National Unification (KINU) publishes a report concluding that retired South Korean generals favor possessing nuclear weapons or at least having the capability of developing them after reunification. The findings are based on a survey conducted by KINU in April 1999 of 300 retired generals. According to one of the authors of the report, the results represent fears amongst Koreans of a military build up by Japan and China.
—Yonhap News Agency, 19 January 2000, in "ROK Ex-Generals Favor Post-Unification Nuclear Capability," FBIS Document ID: FTS20000119000091; Kim Yŏng Shik, ""Yebiyŏk Changsŏng 90% 'Haek P'ilyo'," Donga Ilbo, 20 January 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

20 January 2000
Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian tells South Korean Defense Minister Cho Sŏng T'ae that Beijing fully supports efforts to make the Korean peninsula free of nuclear weapons, and that China is actively working towards that end. Chi, meeting with his South Korean counterpart in Seoul, is the first Chinese Defense Minister to visit South Korea since its founding in 1948. Chi is in Seoul 19-23 January.
—"S. Korea Asks for China's 'Constructive Role' to Engage N. Korea," Japan Economic Newswire, 19 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Chinese Defense Minister Calls for Nuclear-Free Korean Peninsula," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 20 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Hwang Yang Chun, "[Chungguk] Ch'ŭhaot'en Chungguk Kukpangbujang Ch'ŏt Panghan," Hankook Ilbo, 19 January 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Yu Yong Wŏn, "Hanjunggukpanghoedam Kunsagyoryu-Hyŏmnyŏk Hab'ŭi; Chung 'Shilsejangsŏng' Taegŏ Panghan," Chosun Ilbo, 21 January 2000, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

20 January 2000
The Swiss firm Asea Brown Boveri AG (ABB) announces that it recently signed contracts with Korea Heavy Industries and Construction Co., Ltd. and Korea Power Engineering Corporation to deliver $200 million worth of equipment and services for the KEDO light water reactor project.
—"ABB Wins 200 Mln USD Nuclear Power Plant Contracts in North Korea," AFX Europe, 20 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Swiss Firm Receives Order for Nuclear Project in N. Korea," Japan Economic Newswire, 20 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Sŭwisŭ ABB Sa, Taebuk Kyŏngsurosaŏp 2 Ŏk Pul Kyeyak," Segye Ilbo, 22 January 2000, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

21 January 2000
The Fifth Annual Permanent Coordinating Group (PCG) Meeting between the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) and the US Department of Energy is held in Seoul. The delegations agree in principle to extend the arrangement for PCG with minor changes in intellectual property rights and a new action sheet on physical protection.
—"5th PCG Meeting Held in Seoul," TCNC Newsletter, 1 February 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

24-26 January 2000
The Sixteenth ROK-Canada Joint Coordinating Committee Meeting on Nuclear Energy is held in Ottawa, Canada. The two sides discuss issues related to bilateral nuclear cooperation, international nonproliferation and safety.
—"16th Korea-Canada Joint Coordinating Committee Meeting on Nuclear Energy," TCNC Newsletter, 1 February 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

28 January 2000
Researchers at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute announce that they have developed an agent that chemically dissolves radioactive material and can be used to clean up radioactive contamination. The agent is made from a mixture of clay, ion-exchange materials and an unspecified water-soluble polymer and has reportedly been patented in South Korea and the UK.
—Stefan Baumgarten, "S Korea Researchers Develop Radioactive Clean-up Agent," Chemical News & Intelligence, 31 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Lee Chung Su, "Kungnaeyŏn'gujin, Pangsanŭng Oyŏm Chegŏ Shingisul Ch'ŏt Kaebal, Segye Ilbo, 29 January 2000, p.23, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

30 January 2000
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute announces it has developed a robot to be used in South Korea's nuclear power industry. The robots are expected to be used starting in March or April for maintenance and other repair duties at nuclear power plants.
—Chosun Ilbo, 31 January 2000, in "ROK Atomic Institute to Deploy Robots at Nuclear Plants," FBIS Document ID: FTS20000206000324; Ch'a Pyŏng Hak, "Wŏnjŏn Yujibosu Robotsi Mat'a; Wŏnjaryŏg'yŏn, Robotkaebal Kŭnnae," Chosun Ilbo, 31 January 2000, p. 13, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

31 January 2000
The Technology Center for Nuclear Control and the Argentine-Brazilian Agency for Accounting and Control of Nuclear Materials (ABACC) sign a technology cooperation agreement.
—"TCNC-ABACC Signed Arrangement," TCNC Newsletter, 1 February 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

Late January 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy revises plans to privatize the utility industry under the guidance of a Seoul National University professor who had assisted in preparing the original restructuring plan. Under the new plan, the government is considering spinning off the Korea Electric Power Corporation's power plants into separate subsidiaries and listing them on the stock exchange. A revised restructuring plan is expected to be released in March at the earliest.
—Korea Herald, 26 January 2000, in "ROKG Considers Spinning Off, Listing KEPCO Power Plants," FBIS Document ID: FTS20000125000981.

February 2000
According to a Nuclear Fuel report, the British government decided last fall to support British Nuclear Fuels (BNFL) efforts to reprocess spent fuel from South Korea's nuclear power reactors. A study done by BNFL's consultants concluded that South Korea was a potential major customer for both reprocessing and MOX fabrication by BNFL's Sellafield Mixed Oxide Fuel Plant. According to the report, South Korea is interested in considering reprocessing, but must first gain approval from the US to reprocess any US-origin spent fuel.
—Mark Hibbs, "Britain Would Support BNFL Bid to Eventually Reprocess ROK Fuel," Nuclear Fuel, 7 February 2000, p. 7, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 February 2000
The Yŏnggwang-4 nuclear power plant is temporarily shut down due to a malfunction of an arithmetic unit that detects the position of the control rods. The malfunction caused the 27th control rod to be misplaced. Yŏnggwang-4 resumes operations later in the afternoon.
—Yonhap News Agency, 7 February 2000, in "ROK Nuclear Power Plant Suspended Due to 'Minor Problems'," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000207000042; Yonhap News Agency, 7 February 2000, in "Operations Resume at ROK Yongkwang Nuclear Power Plant," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000207000081; Chŏng Sŭng Ho, "Yŏnggwangwŏnjŏn 4 Hogi Ddo Kojang...7 Il 11 Shigan Kadongjungdan," Donga Ilbo, 8 February 2000, p. 31, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

8 February 2000
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) says it is making a bid to export its Korea Standard Nuclear Plants to China through a consortium that includes ABB-CE. The bid is for the construction of two 1,000MW(e) nuclear plants in China worth $3 billion. If the consortium is awarded the contract, KEPCO will design and manage the project while supplying auxiliary facilities, and ABB-CE will build the main reactor.
—Korea Times, 9 February 2000, in "Korea Electric Bids to Export Nuclear Plants to China," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000209000086; Lee Myŏng Chae, "Hanjŏn Han'gukhyŏngwŏnjŏn Chunggug'e Such'ul Ch'ujin," Donga Ilbo, 10 February 2000, p. 37, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

15 February 2000
JCG Corporation, a Japanese plant engineering company, concludes an agreement with the Korea Power Engineering Corporation (KOPEC) to transfer technology to process low-level radioactive waste from nuclear power plants. Under the agreement, JCG will transfer technology on how to solidify cleansing fluids used at nuclear power plants, and bury drums containing radioactive wastes. South Korea plans to build a processing plant for low-level radioactive waste by 2008.
—"JGC Corp to Provide Nuclear Waste Expertise to S Korean Co," Asia Pulse, 16 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kyodo News, 15 February 2000, in "JGC to Transfer Nuclear-Waste Processing Tech to ROK," FBIS Document ID: JPP20000215000057.

24 February 2000
A ceremony is held for the completion of the Ulchin-4 nuclear power plant. The Ulchin-4 plant has a capacity of 1,000MW(e) and is South Korea's second Korean-type pressurized light water reactor (PWR).
—Chosun Ilbo, 23 February 2000, in "ROK Ulchin No. 4 Nuclear Reactor Completed," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000223000067; Ch'oi Yun P'il, "Ulchin Wŏnjŏn 4 Hogi Chun'gong," Hankook Ilbo, 25 February 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

24 February 2000
The Seoul Tests and Inspections Company loses a radiation tester containing iridium-192, a 35-curie radioisotope that can be harmful to humans. The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) approved the use of this radioisotope for nondestructive testing. [NOTE: The radioisotope is later found on 25 February 2000 by a housing development manager.]
—Yonhap News Agency, 25 February 2000, in "Highly Radioactive Isotope Lost in Ulsan, ROK," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000225000026; Yonhap News Agency, 25 February 2000, in "Radiation Tester, Radio Isotope Retrieved in ROK's Ulsan," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000225000077.

28 February 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy announces that South Korea's nuclear power operation rate is 88.2%, which is the second highest in the world. [Note: The average rate for countries operating five or more nuclear power plants is reportedly 75.6%. Belgium has the highest operation rate in the world with 93%.]
—"Korea's Nuclear Power Operation Rate World's 2nd Highest," Asia Pulse, 28 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

28 February 2000
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) begins its two day seminar for 200 companies bidding to supply auxiliary components for the two light water reactors in North Korea. The companies bidding are all from member countries of the Korea Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
—Yonhap News Agency, 28 February 2000, in "ROK Power Co Holds Seminar for Nuclear Equipment Suppliers," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000228000039.

3 March 2000
The Yŏnggwang-3 nuclear power plant is temporarily shut down due to a leak in the coolant from the flow meter.
—Yonhap News Agency, 3 March 2000, in "ROK's Yongkwang Power Plant Partially Suspended," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000303000088.

8 March 2000
A professor at Inha University announces he has developed a pilot generator called the Ocean Thermal Energy Converter (OTEC) using high temperature water released from nuclear power plants and low-temperature water from the deep sea. The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) has been supporting this research and hopes to commercialize the technology with water discharged from the Kori and Wŏlsŏng nuclear power plants.
—Korea Times, 9 March 2000, in "ROK Professor Invents Power-Generation Device," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000309000073; Kim Hak Chun, "Haesuondoch'a Iyong Palchŏngi Kuknae Ch'ŏt Kaebal," Taehan Maeil, 10 March 2000, p. 25, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

9 March 2000
South Korean President Kim Dae Jung delivers his "Berlin Declaration," which proposes governmental talks between the two Koreas, and aims to increase inter-Korean exchanges.
—"S. Korea's Kim Set to Work Directly with North," United Press International, 10 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "South Korean President Kim Dae-jung Calls for Talks with North Korea," Agence France Presse, 9 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Ji-ho, "'Berlin Declaration' Shows Seoul's Will, Confidence in Inter-Korea Initiative," Korea Herald, 10 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Min Bae, "Kim Taet'ongnyŏng 'Berlin Sŏn'ŏn' 4 Kaehang Palp'yo," Chosun Ilbo, 10 March 2000, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com>; Kim Min Bae, "Kim Taet'ongnyŏng 'Berlin Sŏn'ŏn' Pukchiwŏn, Chŏngbuga Chikchŏp Nasŏnda," Chosun Ilbo, 10 March 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com>.

17 March 2000
A DUPIC (Direct Use of Spent PWR Fuel in CANDU Reactors) open-lab ceremony is held at the DUPIC Fuel Development Facility for over 50 participants from South Korea and other countries. During the ceremony, a demonstration is made of the remote fabrication process of DUPIC fuel.
—"DUPIC Celebrated Open Lab," TCNC Newsletter, 1 April 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

22-24 March 2000
The Seventh Korea-Japan Atomic Power Council meeting is held in Seoul. Participants discuss increasing nuclear safety in Asia and agree to jointly address the North Korea nuclear issue. The two sides agree to increase bilateral cooperation in the nuclear energy industry.
—Yonhap News Agency, 24 March 2000, in "ROK, Japan Agree to Cooperation in Nuclear Energy Industry," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000324000076.

30-31 March 2000
The US, Japan and South Korea hold a meeting of the Trilateral Coordination and Oversight Group (TCOG) in Tokyo to coordinate their policies on North Korea. According to reports, the US side suggests that one of the LWRs being supplied to North Korea under the Agreed Framework should be replaced with six conventional power plants. However, the South Korean delegation disagrees with the proposal.
—Chosun Ilbo, 5 January 2001, in "ROK Daily Notes US Aim To Build 6 Power Plants in DPRK, ROKG's Objections," FBIS Document ID KPP20010105000068; Lee Ha Won, "US Proposes Alternative Power Plants for NK," Chosun Ilbo, 5 January 2001, <http://www.chosun.com>; Lee Ha Wŏn, "Mi 'Pug'e Hwajŏn'gŏnsŏl' Chean," Chosun Ilbo, 6 January 2001, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; "Han-Mi-Il Taebukchŏngch'aekhyŏp 30 Il Tok'yosŏ Yŏllyŏ," Munhwa Ilbo, 28 March 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

1-4 April 2000
KEDO and North Korean officials meet in Hyangsan, North Korea to discuss a protocol on the training of North Korean engineers who will operate the two light water reactors once they are completed. KEDO reportedly wants the engineers trained in South Korea, but North Korea insists the training take place in any country other than South Korea. According to a KEDO official, North Korea agrees to comply with KEDO's decision to conduct the training at a South Korean nuclear plant.
—Yonhap News Agency, 27 March 2000, "North Korea, Energy Organization to Discuss Signing of Protocol on Training," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 27 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; KBS Radio (Seoul), 16 April 2000, in "North Agrees to KEDO-Designated Training Site," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 18 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO Delegation Here," Korean Central News Agency, 1 April 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "Chosŏnbando'enerŭgigaebalgiguhyŏpsangdae'p'yodan Toch'ak," Korean Central News Agency, 1 April 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "KEDO Delegation Leaves," Korean Central News Agency, 4 April 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "KEDO Hyŏpsangdae'p'yodan'i Ddŏna Katta," Korean Central News Agency, 4 April 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.

10 April 2000
Ulchin-1nuclear power reactor is temporarily shut down due to damage to power-transmission cables, which was cause by a forest fire in the area. According to officials, no damage is reported to the nuclear reactors.
—Ku Tae Son, "Sŏllosŏnsang Ulchinwŏnjŏn 1 Hogi Kadongjungdan," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 8 April 2000, p. 23, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Yonhap News Agency, 11 April 2000, in "ROK Forest Fire Leads to Suspending Nuclear Plant Output," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000411000079.

19 April 2000
The Ministry of Science and Technology reveals a new plan to promote 154 projects in 26 categories in order to develop new technologies and increase nuclear safety. The government plans to invest 27 billion won for nuclear reactor research, 24.5 billion won for safety research, 15 billion won for nuclear fuel, and 18.4 billion won for radioactive waste disposal. In addition, 17.4 billion won will be allocated for radioactive isotope research.
—Korea Herald, 20 April 2000, in "Seoul to Invest 114.6 Billion Won in Nuclear Power," FBIS Document ID" KPP20000419000085.

19 April 2000
Officials from South Korea's Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) meet with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC) Commissioner to discuss issues within the US-South Korean agreement on nuclear cooperation. The bilateral agreement expires this year and the two countries will hold discussions in June to extend the agreement. During the talks, MOST officials explain South Korea's plans to develop a set of standards and procedures for extending licenses that differ from formal NRC licensing procedures. In addition, Korean officials request more information on changes to the US regulatory environment.
—Mark Hibbs, "Extension of Korea-US Regulatory Agreement Subject to Talks," Inside NRC, 24 April 2000, p. 9, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

15 May 2000
An official from KEPCO, the primary contractor for the KEDO light water reactor project, announces that the current consortium of South Korean subcontractors for the project will be disbanded unless an agreement on how to divide the project is reached by the end of June. The statement is in response to a complaint filed by Daewoo Construction on the same day to the Fair Trade Commission claiming that Hyundai Engineering and Construction is attempting to monopolize the third stage of construction. [Note: In 1996, Hyundai, Donga, Daewoo, and Korea Heavy Industries agreed to divide the light water reactor project 35%, 25%, 20%, and 20% respectively.]
—Yonhap News Agency, 15 May 2000, in "Koreas: South Subcontractors in Dispute over North Reactor Project," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 15 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 15 May 2000, in "Koreas: Daewoo Accuses Hyundai of North Reactor Project Monopoly," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 15 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 May 2000
Twenty liters of cooling water leaks from the Wŏlsŏng-1 pressurized heavy water reactor while technicians carry out an inspection of the joints in the feed-water pumps. The leak exposes two technicians to moderate levels of radiation. According to the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety, the technicians were exposed to 4.59 mSv of radiation which is equivalent to 15 chest x-rays. During the inspections, no other problems are found with the nuclear power plant.
—Ch'a Pyŏng Hak, "Wŏlsŏn'gwŏnjŏn Ddo Chungsunusŏl; Chagŏpcha 2 Myŏng Pangsanŭng P'ibok, Chosun Ilbo, 23 May 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Wŏlsŏng 1 Hogi Chŏmgŏmjung Naenggaksu Yuch'ulsago," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 23 May 2000, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Chungang Ilbo [sic], "Radiation Leaks at ROK's 1st Wolsong Atomic Power Station," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000524000026.

1 June 2000
Hyundai Engineering and Construction Company reaffirms its intentions to be the main contractor for the third stage of the light water reactor project in North Korea. However, company officials are showing the willingness to discuss related building issues with the Daewoo Engineering and Construction Company, the Dong Ah Construction Industrial Company, and Korea Heavy Industries and Construction (Hanjung). The companies have been unable to agree upon how to divide the terms of the project.
—Yonhap News Agency, 1 June 2000, in "Hyundai to Continue 3d Part of DPRK Reactor Project Alone," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000601000072; Yonhap News Agency, 1 June 2000, in "ROK Hyundai Poised to Oversee NK Nuke Reactor Construction," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000601000032.

13-15 June 2000
North Korea's National Defense Commission Chairman Kim Jong Il and South Korean President Kim Dae Jung meet in Pyongyang to discuss various bilateral issues. On 14 June, the two leaders sign an agreement, the "Joint North-South Declaration," by which they pledge to work for reconciliation and eventual reunification of the two countries. The agreement contains a clause by which the two Koreas agree not to engage in offensive military operations against each other. Upon returning to Seoul following the historic talks, Kim Dae Jung announces that he raised the issue of international concerns over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. According to South Korean government spokesman Park Chun Yŏng, President Kim Dae Jung, in a 16 June telephone conversation with US President Bill Clinton says that he comprehensively discussed the North Korean weapons development program with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il during their summit in Pyongyang. Park says, "President Kim told President Clinton that he strongly urged the North Korean leader to successfully conclude negotiations with the United States on North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and that leaving these weapon issues unsettled could impede regional peace and cooperation."
—Thomas Wagner, "Korean Leaders Sign Agreement to Work Toward Reunification," Associated Press, 14 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Charles Lee, "Korean Summit Ends with Historic Agreement in Hand," United Press International, 15 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "2 Kims Discussed Nuclear, Missile Issues in Summit Talks," Japan Economic Newswire, 15 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http:/web.lexis-nexis.com>; Howard W. French, "Korea's 'New Day': Historic Summit Praised by All, But Concerns Remain," The Gazette (Montreal), 16 June 2000, p. B1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "President Says He Urged N.K. Leader to Resolve Nuclear, Missile Issues with U.S. at Summit Talks," Korea Herald, 17 June 2000, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>; Ch'oe Yŏng Bŏm, "DJ-Clinton Chŏnhwat'onghwa, Nambukhoedam Sŏngkwa Tŭng Sŏlmyŏng," Munhwa Ilbo, 16 June 2000, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

26-28 June 2000
The 21st Joint Standing Committee on Nuclear Energy Cooperation (JSCNEC) between the US and South Korea and the US is held in South Korea. The two sides discuss nuclear policy, and cooperation in the areas of technology and safeguards. Export controls for the KEDO light water reactor project is discussed for the first time during a JSCNEC meeting. Officials from South Korea and the US discuss export control requirements and regulations, and agree to mutual cooperation on export control issues.
—"21st JSCNEC Ended with Accord," TCNC Newsletter, 1 August 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

11-12 July 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy holds the government's first public forum for a nuclear waste site. The two-day presentation is held in Taejŏn and is attended by 31 officials from 24 local governments and organizations. The government plans to hold presentations at every local government that expresses interest in becoming a nuclear waste site.
—Yonhap News Agency, 12 July 2000, in "Local ROK Gov'ts Said Interested in Becoming Nuclear Waste Site," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000712000040.

13 July 2000
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) announces that subcontractors have agreed to let Hyundai Engineering and Construction Company take half of the third phase of constructing the two light water reactors in North Korea. Daewoo Engineering and Construction Company, Dong Ah Construction Industrial Company and Korea Heavy Industries and Construction (Hanjung) agreed to take a 5% reduction from their second phase share while Hyundai's portion will increase 15%.
—Yonhap News Agency, 13 July 2000, in "ROK Firms Allow Hyundai to Take Half of DPRK Reactor Project," FBIS Document ID" KPP20000713000065.

14 July 2000
According to South Korean news reports, the South Korean government is delaying the announcement of the model type for four new nuclear power plants out of fear of a possible trade dispute with Canada. Officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy stated that the Korean Standard Nuclear Power (KSNP) plant will most likely be chosen for Shin-Kori-1 and -2 nuclear reactors. However, the decision has not been made for Shin-Wŏlsŏng-1 and -2 nuclear reactors. According to the report, the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) will make a decision based solely on efficiency, but the government has not yet decided which model to choose due to lobbying by those who support the Canadian CANDU reactor.
—Yonhap News Agency, 14 July 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Gov't Suspected of Delaying Announcement on Reactor Model Choice," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000714000028; Ch'a Pyŏng Hak, "Shingyu Wŏnjŏn Nohyŏngsŏnjŏng Kaltŭng," Chosun Ilbo, 14 July 2000, p. 15, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com>.

1 August 2000
South Korea and Japan sign an agreement on nuclear safeguards. Under the agreement, the two countries agree to increase nuclear cooperation, hold annual meetings on nuclear safety and emergency management technology, and to exchange nuclear safety specialists.
—Yonhap News Agency, 1 August 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Seoul, Tokyo Conclude Nuclear Safeguards Agreement," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000801000083.

3 August 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy says that the five affiliate companies of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to be privatized will be sold through stock offerings. The government plans to privatize the energy sector by creating spin-off firms from KEPCO with the exception of nuclear power plants.
—Yonhap News Agency, 3 August 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Five KEPCO Affiliates to be Privatized Through Share Sales," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000803000049; Lee Myŏng Chae, "Sanjabu 'Hanjŏn 5 Kae Chahoesa Ilban'gongmobangshik Maegak'," Donga Ilbo, 4 August 2000, p. 31, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com>.

9-15 August 2000
The first Japan-Korea joint workshop on IAEA safeguards is held at the Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute in Taejŏn. The workshop covers a combination of theoretical and practical exercises on environmental sampling analysis, inspection techniques, spent fuel measurement and measuring nuclear materials. A similar workshop is planned to be held in Japan next year.
—Yonhap News Agency, 8 August 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Seoul, Tokyo, IAEA to Hold Workshop on Nuclear Material Inspection," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000808000007; "First Japan-Korea Workshop on IAEA Safeguards Completed," TCNC Newsletter, 1 October 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

Mid August 2000
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) offers to purchase 1,000 metric tons of heavy water from Romania's Romag-Prod Heavy Water Factory. Discussions regarding the purchase have been on going since mid July.
—Bucharest Ziua, 19 August 2000, in "Romania: South Korean Company Offers to Purchase Heavy Water from Romag," FBIS Document ID: EUP20000821000122.

22 August 2000
The Korea Institute of Science Technology Evaluation and Planning announces That South Korea will need fourth generation nuclear reactors as an energy source in 20 years. South Korea, the US, Japan, France, Brazil, South Africa, the UK, Canada, Germany and the IAEA have been coopering together to develop fourth generation reactors and they are expected to come online around 2020. Partner countries are expected to send representatives to South Korea on 28 August to discuss nuclear energy policies and other issues related to fourth generation nuclear reactors.
—Yun Sŏng Hye, "4 Sedae Wŏnjaro Kaebal..Han, Mi, Ildŭng Kongdongch'amyŏ," Munhwa Ilbo, 22 August 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 22 August 2000, in "South Korea Joins Nuclear Reactor Development Project," Asia Pulse, 22 August 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 August 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy (MOCIE) announces it has chosen the Korean Standard rather than CANDU reactors for Shin-Kori-1 and -2 nuclear reactors. The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) will hold a meeting in late August to confirm the decision. Kori-1 and -2 reactors are expected to be completed by 2009. In addition, MOCIE states that the reactor design for Shin-Wŏlsŏng-1 and -2 will be made by the end of the year.
—Ham Hye Ri, "Shin'gori Wŏnjŏn 1, 2 Hogi Han'guk P'yojunhyŏng'ŭro Kŏnsŏl," Taehan Maeil, 23 August 2000, p. 10, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.com>; Chosun Ilbo, 22 August 2000, in "ROK Standard Reactors Chosen for 2 New Nuclear Plants," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000822000085.

September 2000
The South Korean government says it will spend 27 billion won to develop the next generation of super-conduction nuclear fusion research equipment over the next year. South Korea has spent 73.6 billion won on this project since 1995 when it designated nuclear fusion as one of the nation's top priority science projects.
—"Seoul to Spend W27 Bill. in Nuclear Fusion Research," Korea Herald, 25 September 2000, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

September 2000
South Korea and Russia hold talks on ways to enhance cooperation in atomic energy. During the talks, Russia expresses an interest in constructing nuclear power plants in China, Japan and South Korea.
—Yonhap News Agency, 7 September 2000, in "S Korea, Russia Discuss Cooperation in Atomic Energy," Asia Pulse, 7 September 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

Early September 2000
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) announces that regulators and safety consultants have completed establishing the guidelines for mandatory periodic safety reviews for all nuclear power plants in South Korea. MOST plans to include the details of its periodic safety program in South Korea's second national report to the International Nuclear Safety Convention, which will be filed with the IAEA in 2001. [Note: MOST and the Korean Institute of Nuclear Safety have been consulting European, Japanese and the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the past three years on the details of the periodic safety program.]
—Mark Hibbs, "South Korean Regulators Complete Preparations for Periodic Reviews," Inside NRC, 11 September 2000, p. 10, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

8 September 2000
South Korea and Russia agree to cooperate in the field of atomic energy and promote the exchange of technology and information on next generation liquid metal reactors.
—"S Korea, Russia Seek Cooperation in Atomic Energy," Xinhwa News Agency, 8 September 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 September 2000
The Board of Audit and Inspection presents a report to an opposition lawmaker on the number of technicians exposed to radiation at South Korea's nuclear power plants. According to the report, approximately 310 technicians were exposed to radiation at the Yŏnggwang power plant in 1998. These technicians were exposed to a total of 41 rem of radiation while repairing three broken pins in the control rod tube. According to the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) the level of radiation exposed to power plant workers is less than the amount most people are exposed to in one year. In addition, the report notes that 14 nuclear power plants across the country were shut down 52 times between 1997 and June 2000 due to accidents. According to the report, KEPCO failed to repair programming errors in the Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear reactor in 1983 and 1986 that caused the generator to break down twice.
—Yonhap News Agency, 20 September 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: 310 Technicians at Yongwang Nuclear Plant Exposed to Radiation," FBIS Document ID: KPP20000920000041; Joongang Ilbo, 4 October 2000, in "ROK Nuclear Power Plants Closed 52 Times Due to 'Accidents'," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001004000095; Choi Sŏng Uk, "Yŏnggwang Wŏnjŏn 3 Paegyŏmyŏng Pangsasŏn P'ibok," Hankook Ilbo, 21 September 2000, p. 41, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

October 2000
South Korean officials explain to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) that they are putting more emphasis on nuclear safety and increasing government funding for both the Ministry of Science and Technology's (MOST) safety directorate and the Korea Institute for Nuclear Safety (KINS). Since 1997, the NRC has been worried about nuclear safety in South Korea and other Asian countries.
—Mark Hibbs, "South Korean Regulators Successfully Fighting for Funds, Influence," Inside NRC, 23 October 2000, p. 9, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

Mid October 2000
The South Korean government asks Atomic Energy of Canada, Limited (AECL) to resubmit its bid to construct heavy water reactors for the Wŏlsŏng-5 and -6 nuclear power plants. According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy, AECL submitted a bid for $3 billion, which is $370 million less than the cost to construct a standard light water reactor. The government is reportedly having difficulties deciding between the Canadian heavy water reactor and the standard light water reactor design.
—Yonhap News Agency, 16 October 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: AECL under Bid by $300 Million in Bidding for Wolsung Nos. 5 and 6," FBIS Document ID: KPP200001016000042.

16 October 2000
During a plenary session of the National Assembly's Committee on Unification, Foreign Affairs and Trade, Kim Dŏk Ryong (Grand National Party) says that South Korea and the US secretly had discussed the possibility of converting one of the light water reactors for North Korea into a thermal power plant. According to Kim, the US and South Korea considered this option in May as a solution to the delay in building the two light water reactors. In addition, he says that the two countries discussed the possibility of having South Korea supply power directly to the North, but this idea was rejected by South Korean officials.
—Kong Chong Shik, "Kim Dŏk Ryong Ŭiwŏn 'Pukhan Kyŏngsuro Hwajŏndaech'e Ch'ujin'," Donga Ilbo, 17 October 2000, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Yonhap News Agency, 16 October 2000, in "Opposition Lawmaker Claims SK, US Discuss Power Supply to NK," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001016000047.

16-18 October 2000
The Ninth IAEA-ROK Joint Review Meeting on Safeguards Implementation is held in Vienna. IAEA and South Korean officials discuss strengthening safeguards, safeguard implementation, inspection results of 1999, and review the status of facility attachments (FAs) and design information questionnaires (DIQs).
—"IAEA-ROK Joint Safeguards Review Meeting in Vienna," TCNC Newsletter, 1 December 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

22 October 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy announces it will begin to develop the next generation Korean standard nuclear power plant capable of producing 1.4 million kilowatts of electric power by the end of next year. The project to develop the next generation Korean standard nuclear power plant began in 1992 and its progress has recently been evaluated by the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), the Nuclear Power Institute, the Safety Technology Institute and the New Nuclear Reactor Center. The new power plant is expected to be built and completed by 2010.
—Yonhap News Agency, 23 October 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Development of Next Gen. Nuke Reactor to be Completed in 2001," FBIS Document ID: KPP200001023000054; "Next-Generation Nuclear Power Plants to be Developed by 2001," Korea Times, 23 October 2000, in KIND, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

23 October 2000
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) announces its plan to promote the establishment of the secretariat of the International Atomic Energy Agency's Regional Cooperation in Asia (RCA) in Seoul. South Korean government officials requested having the RCA secretariat established in Seoul during an IAEA meeting held in India in March 2000. MOST officials state they are willing to transfer technology to other Asian nations and lead projects worth $5 million if Seoul is chosen as the new headquarters.
—Kim In Hyŏn, "Ch'asedae Wŏnjaro Kaebal Naenyŏn Wallyo," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 24 October 2000, p. 22, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Yonhap News Agency, 23 October 2000, "ROK's Yonhap: S. Korea Eager to Have IAEA Secretariat Based Here," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001023000043.

23 October-10 November 2000
The Sixth Nuclear Cooperation Policy Seminar is held for South Korean nuclear experts in Washington, DC. Attendees include officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS), and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI). The seminar covers an overview of the formation of nonproliferation policy, the international nonproliferation regime, the US nuclear export control regime, US views on nuclear fuel cycle technologies, US nuclear technology policy and trends, and international nuclear cooperation. The seminar is coordinated by Energy Resources International, Inc, and by Bengelsdorf, McGoldrick and Associates.
—"Nuclear Cooperation Policy Seminar between US and ROK in Washington, DC," TCNC Newsletter, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

27 October 2000
Several South Korean government officials propose building a radioactive waste disposal site in North Korea in return for energy aid. South Korea will soon run out of nuclear waste storage and the government has been trying to select a site to build a waste facility. According to some government officials, a nuclear waste disposal site in North Korea "would be a good example of mutual interests served between the two Koreas."
—"Lawmakers Propose Nuclear Waste Site in N. Korea," Korea Herald, 28 October 2000, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>; Roh Wŏn Myŏng, "[Kijaŭi Nun] Isanghan Sanghojuŭi," Hankook Ilbo, 23 October 2000, p. 30, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

27 October 2000
South Korean lawmakers criticize the government's loose safety control of nuclear power plants and facilities during a National Assembly audit. According to some lawmakers, a government report revealed more than 40 fragments of broken couplings at a reactor in Ulchin in 1998. In May 2000, another 116 coupling fragments were found in the same reactor's steam generating machine. Another lawmaker accuses the Korea Institute for Nuclear Safety and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) of failing to keep track of sealed containers of radioactive isotopes that are hazardous to humans and the environment if handled improperly. In addition, lawmakers accuse the government of importing scrap metal contaminated with radiation to build schools and apartments in 1983.
—Lee Joon Seung, "Lawmakers Take Aim at Loopholes in Nuclear Safety," Korea Herald, 28 October 2000, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

31 October 2000
Woori Technology Company says it will sign a technology agreement with Siemens on nuclear power generation control systems on 1 November 2000.
—Yonhap News Agency, 31 October 2000, in "Woori Technology to Sign Technology Tie-up Agreement with Siemens," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001301000020.

29 October-2 November 2000
The 12th Pacific Basin Nuclear Conference (PBNC) organized by the Korea Atomic Industry Forum (KAIF) and the Korea Nuclear Society (KSN) is held in Seoul. The speakers discuss the KEDO project, new reactor designs, research and development programs in Korea, new construction, sustainable development, and nonproliferation issues.
—David Flin, "Update: Generating a Nuclear Future at PBNC2000," Nuclear Engineering International, 31 December 2000, p. 15, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Session on KEDO Project at 12th PBNC Held in Seoul," TCNC Newsletter, 1 December 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

November 2000
According to a Nuclear Fuel report, representatives from the US Non-Proliferation Trust have been speaking to officials in South Korea and Taiwan about participating in a program to store spent fuel in Russia. The Non-Proliferation Trust is looking to finance and build a facility in Russia capable of holding up to 10,000 metric tons of spent fuel from other countries.
—Michael Knapik and Ann MacLachlan, "Non-Proliferation Trust Looking to Taiwan, South Korea to Store Spent Fuel in Russia," Nuclear Fuel, 13 November 2000, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

November 2000
The Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS) starts a new research project to update and strengthen safety regulations for Korea's four CANDU-6 nuclear power reactors. In addition, the Ministry of Science and Technology and KINS are requiring these reactors to be shut down for routine inspections and maintenance every 20 months. Officials state that after research is completed in 2002, they hope to develop a complete set of performance indicators for CANDU reactors.
—Mark Hibbs, "Korean Regulators Order PHWRs, Like PWRs, Shut for Periodic Checks," Inside NRC, 6 November 2000, p. 6, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

6-8 November 2000
A DUPIC (Direct Use of Spent PWR Fuel in CANDU Reactors) Project Review Meeting is held in South Korea. Participants discuss the termination of the research and development of DUPIC fuel characterization, the revision of the joint cooperation agreement between the US and South Korea that expires in March 2002, research and development activities, DUPIC safeguards beyond 2002, and IAEA support programs.
—"DUPIC Safeguards Research Highlighted," TCNC Newsletter, 1 December 2000, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr
/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

10 November 2000
South Korea and Vietnam sign a cooperation agreement on the development of nuclear energy. According to the agreement, the two countries will cooperate in developing nuclear power, operating a research reactor in Vietnam, applying nuclear and radiation technology, and establishing nuclear law.
—Hanoi VNA, 11 November 2000, in "Vietnam, Republic of Korea Boost Nuclear Energy Cooperation," FBIS Document ID: SEP20001113000075.

10-15 November 2000
South Korea attends the first meeting of the Forum for Nuclear Cooperation in Asia (FNCA) held in Bangkok. Participating countries include South Korea, Japan, Australia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. During the meeting, member countries draft a joint communiqué for increased regional nuclear cooperation in seven fields. The fields include utilization of research reactors, nuclear energy for agricultural development, nuclear energy for medical science, public information on nuclear energy, radioactive waste management, nuclear safety, and human resources development.
—Bangkok Post, 14 November 2000, in "Nine Asian Countries Draft Joint Communiqué on Nuclear Technology Cooperation," FBIS Document ID: SEP2000111400001; Mark Hibbs, "Nine Asian Countries Agree to Intensify Regional Cooperation," Nucleonics Week, 16 November 2000, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 November 2000
An employee of the Korean Inspection and Engineering Corporation suffers exposure to fatal levels of radiation while conducting nondestructive testing in his office. According to investigations, the accident was caused by the employee's failure to use proper safety measures. [Note: A task force from the Ministry of Science and Technology collects all radioactive substances and seals all the radioisotopes on 24 November 2000. The materials are sent to the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety.]
—Yonhap News Agency, 24 November 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Cleanup of Leaked Radioactive Substances Completed," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001124000019; Shin Tong Ho, "Ulsansŏ Pangsasŏn P'iboksago...Iridyum Hweson 1 Myŏng Ibwŏn," Donga Ilbo, 23 November 2000, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>

29 November 2000
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) announces that Kori-1 nuclear power plant has generated over one trillion kilowatt hours of electricity since it began operations 23 years ago. The one trillion kilowatt hours accounts for 34.5% of all electricity generated in South Korea since June 1977.
—Yonhap News Agency, 29 November 2000, in "S Korea S Kori Nuke Plant No. 1 Achieves 1 TLN KWH in 23 Years," Asia Pulse, 29 November 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 December 2000
The South Korean government decides to push ahead with an inter-Korean nuclear cooperation project for peaceful uses that include the establishment of a nuclear cooperation committee and mutual inspections. According to government officials, the idea came about "from the perception that a reconciliatory and cooperative atmosphere between the two Koreas has been created by the June inter-Korean summit in Pyongyang." The government plans to first propose a joint nuclear cooperation committee and a corresponding agreement.
—Yonhap News Agency, 4 December 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Inter-Korean Nuclear Cooperation Committee to be Set up," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001204000005.

9 December 2000
Officials say that South Korea and the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) have held talks with Uzbekistan about joining KEDO. KEDO officials are interested in having Uzbekistan supply the uranium for the light water reactors in North Korea.
—Mark Hibbs, "Uzbekistan to Discuss Joining KEDO, Could Supply Uranium to PWR Project," Nuclear Fuel, 11 December 2000, p. 6, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 December 2000
Uzbekistan becomes a member of KEDO.
—Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, KEDO 2001 Annual Report, p. 10, <http://www.kedo.org
/pdfs/KEDO_AR_2002.pdf>; Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, "About Us: Member Nations," <http://www.kedo.org/au_members.asp>.

19 December 2000
President Kim Dae Jung says at a meeting of the National Science and Technology Council that he supports research programs to develop alternative sources of energy such as nuclear fusion.
—Yonhap News Agency, 19 December 2000, in "ROK's Yonhap: Pres. Kim Reaffirms Satellite Launch in 2005," FBIS Document ID: KPP20001219000068.

22 December 2000
KEPCO signs a contract with Hyundai Engineering and Construction, Donga Construction, Daewoo Corporation and Korea Heavy Industries for the secondary stages of construction for the two KEDO light water reactors in North Korea. The four firms are contracted to complete construction of the reactors, turbines, generators and other related facilities.
—Yonhap News Agency, 22 December 2000, in "South Korean Corporation, Building Consortium Sign Contract on North Reactors," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 22 December 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEPCO Signs Contract with 4 Local Builders on N.K. Reactor," Korea Herald, 25 December 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim In Hyŏn, "Puk Kyŏngsuro Chusŏlbigonsa Kyeyak," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 24 December 2000, p. 4, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

17 December 2000
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy announces that it has decided to use Korean Standard Nuclear Plants (KSNP) for the Wŏlsŏng-5 and -6 nuclear reactors, which are scheduled to be built by 2009 and 2010 respectively.
—Hwang Il Song, "Ponggilwŏnjŏn 2 Ki Nohyŏng 'Han'gukp'yojunhyŏng' Ch'ae't'aek," Kukmin Ilbo, 18 December 2000, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

	Updated September 2004