The International Workshop on Disruptive Technologies for Nuclear Safety Applications, jointly organized and hosted by the OECD/NEA, KAERI, and KNS (Korean Nuclear Society), was held from May 16th to 17th, 2023, at the International Convention Center Jeju, Korea.

The newest phase of the digital revolution is transforming entire sectors of the economy, and this revolution is linked to many new digital technologies, innovative materials, and processes. The nuclear sector must actively embrace this new wave of the digital revolution in our nuclear society, so as not to be left behind by these new developments.

The workshop aimed to provide a venue for experts from around the world to discuss how to develop and adopt game-changing digital technologies (big data, advanced modeling, artificial intelligence, augmented reality), new materials and processes (advanced manufacturing, robotics, wireless communication, etc.) to improve nuclear safety in nuclear power plants. It brought together around 150 experts from academia, research organizations, industries, and regulatory bodies to discuss the potential opportunities and challenges posed by adopting the most disruptive digital innovations in the nuclear sector.

The workshop began with opening remarks from Tae-Seog OH, the 1st Vice Minister of Science and ICT, William D. Magwood, NEA Director-General, Won-Pil Baek, President of the Korean Nuclear Society, and Han Gyu JOO, President of KAERI. Rumina VELSHI, President and CEO of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) gave special remarks on regulatory innovation. Featuring 2 keynote speakers, and 16 speakers in 4 main sessions, the workshop invited participants to engage in active discussions on the global consideration of the use of these disruptive technologies in nuclear applications, from concept to implementation. The workshop consisted of 4 sessions: Advanced Modeling and Simulation Tools, Data-driven Technologies, Advanced Manufacturing and Smart Devices, and Robotics.

Notably, the workshop invited nuclear regulators to the discussion to share their ideas on the path for validation and licensing of new technologies before they can be implemented in nuclear operations, thereby leading to improvements in nuclear safety.

By jointly hosting this workshop, KAERI sought to continue working together with OECD/NEA in the spirit of mutual benefits, providing a good platform to exchange expertise and experiences in enhancing nuclear safety, as well as sharing their vision of the potential for disruptive technologies to drive innovation capable of enhancing nuclear safety.

In his opening remarks, Han Gyu JOO, President of KAERI, stated that he has no doubt that nuclear safety plays a key role in sustaining nuclear industries, and it is necessary to adopt innovative sensing and monitoring technology, as well as intelligent measures based on digital technologies, to enhance nuclear safety in nuclear power plants.