Large-Scale Nuclear Power Plant Construction as a Strong Candidate for the Second Project
"Continued Interest in Domestic Nuclear Power Companies Remains Valid"

As the U.S. investment project is being finalized, there is speculation that nuclear power plant construction, which is a strong contender for the second project, could benefit domestic nuclear power companies.


Hyejeong Jung, a researcher at KB Securities, stated, "As the realization of the U.S. nuclear power plant project is imminent, interest in all domestic companies related to nuclear power remains valid."


The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy has officially announced the Texas Encinal Gas Combined Cycle Power Plant project as the first U.S. investment project. While no specific decisions have been made regarding further plans, projects being considered for the second and third U.S. investment initiatives—reflecting interest from both Korea and the United States—include a large-scale nuclear power plant project and an Alaska liquefied natural gas (LNG) development project.

Kim Jongkwan, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, attended the full committee meeting of the Trade, Industry, and Small and Medium Venture Business Committee held at the National Assembly on the 22nd and delivered a speech. On this day, Minister Kim privately reported on the progress and details of the investment negotiations with the United States. 2026.09.22 Photo by Dongju Yoon

Kim Jongkwan, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, attended the full committee meeting of the Trade, Industry, and Small and Medium Venture Business Committee held at the National Assembly on the 22nd and delivered a speech. On this day, Minister Kim privately reported on the progress and details of the investment negotiations with the United States. 2026.09.22 Photo by Dongju Yoon

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Researcher Jung assessed that Korea's entry into the U.S. nuclear power market is becoming more visible. There are ongoing discussions surrounding the construction of a total of eight new nuclear power units in the United States, as well as the acquisition of equity in Westinghouse. The South Korean government is considering building two of the eight proposed new nuclear units using Korean technology, and securing 5% to 10% of Westinghouse shares, mainly through domestic private companies. However, no agreement has been reached with the United States yet, so these plans have been delayed.



Jung commented, "Just a few months ago, it was unclear whether large-scale nuclear power plants would be included in U.S. investment projects, but now with participation by Korean companies becoming more likely, the key will be how this will be executed. While stock price volatility may be high, it is important to consider that the start of U.S. nuclear power plant projects involving Korean participation is drawing near." She added that broad interest in domestic nuclear power companies such as Doosan Enerbility, KEPCO E&C, and Hyundai Engineering & Construction remains valid.


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