South Korea to Invest $76 Million in 2026 for Nuclear Fusion Research and AI Integration
South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT has announced a $76 million investment in 2026 to advance nuclear fusion research, marking a 99% increase from the previous year. The initiative aims to accelerate the development of a new demonstration reactor model and integrate artificial intelligence in areas such as plasma control and data analysis, while enhancing collaboration between industry and academia. Additionally, the plan includes establishing regional testing facilities and a strategic overhaul of the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy to strengthen research and industry connections.
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South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT announced a significant push for nuclear fusion research in 2026, with an investment of 112.4 billion won ($76 million), a 99% increase from 2025. The plan aims to expedite the timeline for commercial fusion power generation, focusing on developing a new demonstration reactor model, integrating artificial intelligence (AI), and enhancing collaboration between industry and academia.
Key initiatives include a design technology development project for a Korean-style fusion reactor and AI applications in plasma control and data analysis. The ministry also seeks to support diverse fusion research methods through the Nuclear Fusion Plug-in Program and will establish regional testing facilities for core components. Furthermore, a strategic overhaul of the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy is planned to improve research and industry linkages.
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