South Korea and the Czech Republic aim to expand cooperation in nuclear energy, robotics and batteries, building on the Dukovany nuclear project, officials said at a national day reception Tuesday.
South Korean Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan pledged government support for the project and said he hoped it would lead to further nuclear cooperation, including at Temelin.
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power signed a contract in June 2025 to build two reactors at Dukovany. The agreement includes an option for two additional reactors at Temelin.
“This is much more than a construction project. It is a long-term investment in energy security, technological excellence and mutual trust,” said Jancarek.
Apart from nuclear energy, Kim said the two countries opened cooperation centers for advanced robotics and future mobility in September. The countries are also working to establish a battery cooperation center and jointly develop next-generation batteries.
“We can accelerate innovation and open up new possibilities in global markets,” the minister said, citing South Korea’s manufacturing capabilities and Czech industrial expertise.
About 110 South Korean companies operate in the Czech Republic, according to Kim. The countries established diplomatic relations in 1990 and a strategic partnership in 2015.
Jancarek highlighted expanding cooperation in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and defense technology, as well as research partnerships and student exchanges.
The day commemorates the founding of Czechoslovakia on Oct. 28, 1918. The country split peacefully into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993.
The event also featured Czech consumer products. Dagmar Zdrhova, a Czech national, presented Manufaktura cosmetics made in Prague using ingredients including beer, wine and herbs.
“Beer is not just for drinking,” she told The Korea Herald, adding that Czech women have long used beer to condition their hair.
sanjaykumar@heraldcorp.com