Nuclear power as the axis of the partnership
South Korean Minister of Industry Kim Jung-kwan said Seoul will support the Dukovany nuclear project and expressed hope that it could pave the way for further collaboration in the sector, including the Temelín plant. The Korea Herald reports this, having gathered the remarks during a reception for the Czech national day held on Tuesday.
The starting point is the contract signed in June 2025 by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power to build two reactors at Dukovany. The agreement includes an option for two more reactors at Temelín, a factor that explains South Korea's interest in turning a single construction site into a long-term relationship. The source cites the description of the project as a lasting investment in energy security, technological excellence and mutual trust.
Robotics and batteries: the new frontiers
In addition to nuclear power, Kim indicated that the two countries inaugurated cooperation centers in September for advanced robotics and future mobility. Work is also under way to establish a cooperation center on batteries and to jointly develop next-generation batteries.
According to the minister, combining South Korean manufacturing capacity with Czech industrial expertise can accelerate innovation and open new possibilities in global markets. The source also reports that about 110 South Korean companies operate in the Czech Republic. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1990 and a strategic partnership in 2015.
Beyond energy: semiconductors, AI and defense
In his remarks, Czech representative Jancarek cited expanded cooperation in sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and defense technologies, along with research collaborations and student exchanges. The October 28 anniversary commemorates the founding of Czechoslovakia in 1918; in 1993 the country peacefully split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
It remains to be verified, based solely on the available material, which concrete commitments have already been formalized beyond the Dukovany contract, and how the agreements on robotics and batteries will translate into operational projects. The source does not provide financial values, timelines or details about the new centers.
