▲ On Nov. 23 (Tues.), a MoU was signed to expand global market access for large nuclear power plant and SMR construction by: 

 ... cooperating in establishing global standards of technology and quality, and developing SMR construction materials and welding technologies

 ... establishing international certification-based reactor construction standards and stabilizing the supply chain to enhance competitiveness in the European market

▲ Strengthening the company's position as a total solutions provider in the global nuclear power plant construction market

 ... accelerating the development of a value chain for the entire nuclear power plant life cycle, including large NPPs, SMRs, nuclear decommissioning, and spent nuclear fuel.

 ... continuing to conclude partnerships with leading domestic and international companies and organizations in the field of nuclear power to enhance business capabilities

[ At KIMS, Hyundai E&C's Head of NewEnergy Division, Choi Young (right), and KIMS President, Choi Chul-jin (left), sign a “Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Competitiveness for Overseas Expansion of Large Nuclear Power Plants and SMR Construction” ]

Hyundai E&C is gearing up to establish global standards for core technologies in the nuclear construction field and promote stable construction of nuclear power plants abroad.

On July 23, Hyundai E&C signed a MoU with KIMS to enhance competitiveness in overseas construction of large nuclear power plants and SMRs. The signing ceremony was held at KIMS in Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do, with key representatives from both companies, including Hyundai E&C's Choi Young,  head of the NewEnergy Division, and KIMS' President Choi Chul-jin.

The Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS) is Korea's leading government-funded research institute under the Ministry of Science and ICT, specializing in materials science. KIMS plays a key role in advancing the materials industry by conducting research, development, testing, evaluation, and providing technical support across various industries. Currently, KIMS is focused on developing special materials like high-strength stainless steel (XM-19) and multilayer metal materials for SMRs, as well as pioneering innovative manufacturing technologies for next-generation nuclear power plants, such as 3D printing, special welding, and high-temperature isostatic pressing (PM-HIP), to secure the commercialization and economic viability of SMRs. Since becoming Korea's first certified nuclear power plant inspection body in 

Under the agreement, both companies will collaborate closely to enhance the competitiveness of large-scale nuclear power plant and SMR construction in overseas markets. Their efforts will focus on △ establishing international standards for nuclear power plant construction technology and quality, △ developing materials and welding technology for SMR construction, and △ creating a stable supply system. To achieve these goals, they will actively promote △ joint research and IP technology transfer, △ manpower support and mutual consultation, △ technology exchange, training, and more.

In particular, Hyundai E&C will conduct preliminary research on constructing American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)-based prototypes in European countries. This research will aim to define manufacturing and construction standards that consider procedures, guidelines, and regulations. Additionally, Hyundai E&C will develop a coaching program to enhance the quality of local suppliers both in Korea and abroad, thereby establishing a solid foundation for securing a successful contract for the large-scale nuclear power plant project in Bulgaria.

Hyundai E&C, which continues to hold the record for the most nuclear power plant construction projects in Korea, has completed 24 large-scale projects, including the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE, the first Korean nuclear plant to be exported. The company has demonstrated its world-class nuclear construction and management capabilities by obtaining ASME certification 14 times since 1982, making it the first Korean construction company to do so. ASME certification, essential for securing and executing international nuclear projects, includes Hyundai E&C's certifications in nuclear equipment field installation (NA), nuclear parts fabrication (NPT), and nuclear support structure fabrication (NS).

A Hyundai E&C official stated, “In collaboration with KIMS, which has decades of experience in authorized nuclear inspections, we will ensure safety and reliability according to international nuclear construction standards. We will also develop training programs for employees, on-site workers, clients, partners, and suppliers to build differentiated capabilities.” “In addition, we will focus on developing and commercializing original technologies related to nuclear power plant materials, thereby securing a competitive edge in nuclear construction and strengthening our leading position in the global nuclear market, including in European countries,” the official added.