South Korea Begins Implementing New SMR Law

Ministry of Science and ICT starts preparatory research to draft enforcement decrees for Small Modular Reactor Special Act.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Ministry of Science and ICT in South Korea has begun preparatory research to draft enforcement decrees for the country's new Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Special Act, which aims to accelerate technology development and commercialization of next-generation nuclear power systems. The legislation, which passed the National Assembly on February 12, requires Cabinet approval and presidential assent before taking effect.

Why it matters

The SMR Special Act establishes administrative, financial and technical support for the development of small modular reactor systems, which the government sees as a potential power supply solution to support expanding AI infrastructure and other high-demand industries. This law is part of South Korea's broader efforts to strengthen investment in SMR and related technologies.

The details

The ministry said it has included a study on drafting enforcement measures in its first-half 2026 nuclear policy research projects to ensure the law's smooth implementation. The study will analyze overseas cases, including the United States and Canada, where efforts are underway to speed up SMR technology development, licensing and demonstration timelines. It will also review relevant laws and enforcement regulations in countries actively pursuing SMR commercialization.

  • The SMR Special Act was passed by the National Assembly on February 12, 2026.
  • The ministry plans to propose practical enforcement measures within the framework of existing laws by mid-March 2026.

The players

Ministry of Science and ICT

The government ministry responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of the SMR Special Act in South Korea.

Hwang Jeong-ah

A Democratic Party lawmaker who proposed the SMR Special Act.

Bae Kyung-hoon

The Deputy Prime Minister and Science Minister of South Korea, who has pledged to strengthen investment in SMR and related technologies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The SMR Special Act still requires Cabinet approval and presidential assent before taking effect. The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This new law is a significant step forward in South Korea's efforts to develop and commercialize small modular reactor technology, which could play an important role in supporting the country's growing AI and high-demand industries. The preparatory research and enforcement decree drafting process will be crucial in ensuring the law's effective implementation.