The Energy Market Authority of Singapore (EMA) and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co Ltd (KHNP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on civil nuclear energy capability building in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) on 1 March 2026. This is the first MOU on civil nuclear energy cooperation between a Korean nuclear power company and a Singapore government agency.

2. The MOU was signed by KHNP Acting President & CEO Daewook Chun and EMA Chief Executive Puah Kok Keong, and exchanged during the Korea-Singapore Summit held in Singapore.

3. This MOU formalises civil nuclear energy cooperation between the two parties and establishes a framework for collaboration. The key areas of cooperation will include (i) conducting joint studies of SMRs for potential applications in Singapore, (ii) collaboration in human resource development and training, and (iii) sharing of technical information and best practices in the field of advanced nuclear technologies. This is part of EMA’s efforts to study various pathways to decarbonise Singapore’s power system, to ensure reliable, secure and sustainable energy supply.

4. Puah Kok Keong, Chief Executive, EMA, said, “For a small country with very limited domestic energy resources, it is critical that we explore all pathways that can strengthen our energy resilience in a low-carbon world. Advanced nuclear energy technologies hold promise as a potential clean energy source. Our partnership with KHNP will deepen our capabilities and technical understanding of SMRs, and enable us to assess the suitability of nuclear energy carefully and rigorously.”

5. Daewook Chun, Acting President & CEO, KHNP, stated, “KHNP has responded to the global energy transition based on its accumulated experience in nuclear plant operation and technical expertise,” adding, “KHNP will actively engage as a responsible partner in EMA’s process of assessing the safety and viability of SMR technology, and will make every effort to ensure that our expertise and experience lead to meaningful outcomes.”