South Korea, Vietnam explore nuclear cooperation amid energy push

South Korea and Vietnam agreed to deepen cooperation in energy and infrastructure during summit talks, with discussions also touching on Hanoi’s potential return to nuclear power, an official said Thursday.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung met his Vietnamese counterpart To Lam on Wednesday where they reviewed a range of issues, including Vietnam’s reconsideration of nuclear energy, Yonhap news agency reported.

The plan was suspended in 2016 due to financial constraints but is now back under review as electricity demand rises.

South Korea’s National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said the Vietnamese side welcomed greater participation by Korean firms in Vietnam’s energy transition.

He added that discussions on the long-stalled Ninh Thuan nuclear project remain at an early stage, focusing on feasibility assessments and risk considerations.

On the sidelines of the summit, state-run Korea Electric Power Corporation and Vietnam National Industry-Energy Group signed two memorandums of understanding to conduct joint feasibility studies and explore financing options for potential nuclear energy projects.

The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in critical mineral supply chains and to establish a new technology cooperation center to support strategic resource development.

Beyond economic ties, Lee and To Lam exchanged views on regional and global security issues, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

They also attended a ceremony where around 12 agreements and MoUs were signed across multiple sectors.