Name of the Project
Kijang research reactor (KJRR).

Location
At the radiation medical and scientific industrial complex in Gijang County, in Busan, South Korea.

Project Owner/s
Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI).

Project Description
The 15 MW research reactor aims to achieve domestic production and export of essential medical and industrial radioactive isotopes.

Radioactive isotopes are substances that emit radiation, and can be highly effective pharmaceuticals for diagnosing and treating diseases, such as cancer, when used appropriately.

Molybdenum, a representative isotope used for cancer diagnosis, has prompted the need for production in South Korea, owing to global shortages and price increases caused by import dependence.

The project plan includes domestically producing 100% of isotopes such as iodine (I-131 mIBG, I-125), used in treating rare childhood cancers and prostate cancer; and iridium (Ir-192), used in cancer diagnosis and industrial applications, capturing more than 15% of the global isotope market through exports.

The core technologies secured during the reactor construction process, such as control rod drive mechanisms, are expected to contribute to securing a foothold in the overseas research reactor market in the future.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure
Not stated.

Planned Start/End Date
Construction of the KJRR started in May 2023. The goal is to complete construction by 2027.

Latest Developments
None stated.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
KAERI, tel Tel +82 42 868 2000–1.