Enhanced Cooperation between Korean SSAC and IAEA

Year
2000
Author(s)
Seung Sik Park - Korea Institute of Nuclear Non-proliferation and Control
Sung Gi Park - Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute
Wan Sou Park - Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute
Yeo-Chang Yoon - Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute
Abstract
Since 1997 national inspection system in Korea was started. First year, national inspections were performed on 7 selected facilities, and then gradually expanded. In 1999, national inspections were successfully completed on 32 nuclear facilities including 12 PWRs, 4 CANDU reactors, 6 research facilities, 1 fuel fabrication plants and others. Total 121 times of national inspections were accomplished. National inspectors from MOST including site resident inspector spent 190 PDIs and TCNC staffs who support MOST inspection spent 394 PDIs. Various types of NDA equipment were developed and used during the national inspection, especially for CANDU reactors and research facilities. Until now, national inspections are simultaneously carried out with IAEA inspections but drew independent conclusions. Gradually, both sides recognized the necessity of cooperation for efficient and effective safeguards implementation. At the moment, a working group between IAEA and Korea is formed to postulate optimal ways of cooperation in current safeguards system as well as integrated safeguards system of enhanced cooperation with SSAC.