Türkiye’s state-owned nuclear energy company TÜNAŞ and South Korea’s Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) have signed a formal cooperation agreement in the nuclear sector, marking a new phase of bilateral collaboration in nuclear project development, technology exchange, site assessment, financing mechanisms, and human resource training. The agreement signals the accelerated entry of Korean nuclear technology into Türkiye’s energy market and reflects Türkiye’s shift toward a more diversified and structured nuclear development strategy.

A Multi-Level Framework for Nuclear Cooperation

Under the agreement, both sides will cooperate across the full nuclear power project cycle, including early-stage planning, technical data sharing, engineering and construction experience, operation and maintenance management, and nuclear safety systems. Joint efforts will also extend to project financing structures and talent development.

Notably, this nuclear partnership forms part of a broader package of bilateral cooperation covering infrastructure, transportation, and energy. Nuclear energy is being elevated to a strategic pillar within the Türkiye–Korea relationship.

Türkiye’s Nuclear Strategy Enters a Diversification Phase

Türkiye’s first nuclear power plant, Akkuyu, currently under construction, is expected to supply around 10% of national electricity demand once fully operational. However, the project’s single-country build-and-operate structure has also highlighted the risks of excessive reliance on a single external supplier.

The entry of Korean nuclear technology is widely viewed as a key step toward diversifying Türkiye’s nuclear development pathway. With Korea’s mature capabilities across plant design, construction, operation, and safety regulation, the cooperation is expected to enhance the overall safety, economic viability, and governance standards of Türkiye’s future nuclear projects.

The agreement is also expected to provide practical momentum for Türkiye’s planned second nuclear power plant, potentially including the Sinop project on the Black Sea coast or alternative sites under consideration.

Energy Security and Energy Transition Considerations

Facing high dependence on imported natural gas and growing exposure to global energy price volatility, Türkiye continues to prioritize stability and affordability in its power system. As a reliable low-carbon baseload energy source, nuclear power plays a strategic role in strengthening energy security, optimizing the electricity mix, and reducing fossil fuel dependence.

By engaging diversified international partners, Türkiye can enhance the resilience of its nuclear programme while pursuing a balanced transition pathway in which nuclear power and renewable energy develop in parallel.

A New Strategic Foothold for Korean Nuclear Exports

For South Korea, the partnership represents another major step in its global nuclear export strategy. Türkiye’s geographic position at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and the Black Sea region, combined with strong electricity demand growth, gives the market significant strategic value.

The cooperation not only expands Korea’s international nuclear footprint but also strengthens its industrial presence in a geopolitically important energy corridor.

Conclusion

The accelerated entry of Korean nuclear technology into Türkiye’s energy market is more than a commercial agreement. It reflects the deepening alignment of national energy strategies between the two countries. Against the backdrop of energy transition pressures, energy security challenges, and persistent geopolitical uncertainty, this partnership may offer a practical reference model for emerging nuclear energy countries worldwide.