Key facts
- Bill Gates arrived in South Korea to discuss cooperation on next-generation nuclear reactors.
- He is expected to meet Prime Minister Han Seong-sook and leaders from SK Group and HD Hyundai.
- TerraPower, founded by Gates, is developing advanced small modular reactors (SMRs).
- SK Group is a major shareholder in TerraPower, and HD Hyundai is collaborating on SMRs.
- TerraPower's Natrium reactors offer higher efficiency, enhanced safety, and reduced waste.
- TerraPower received a U.S. permit to build an SMR plant in Wyoming.
American billionaire Bill Gates, founder of TerraPower, arrived in South Korea on Thursday to engage in discussions regarding cooperation on next-generation nuclear reactors. Gates landed at Gimpo International Airport in Seoul aboard a private jet.
During his visit, Gates is scheduled to meet with prominent political and business figures, including Prime Minister Han Seong-sook, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, and HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Ki-sun. These meetings are expected to focus on expanding partnerships in the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs).
TerraPower, established by Gates in 2006, is dedicated to creating safer, more efficient, and cost-effective nuclear energy solutions to meet increasing energy demands, particularly those driven by AI technologies. SK Group has a significant stake in TerraPower, having invested $250 million, while HD Hyundai is also actively collaborating with the company on SMR initiatives.
TerraPower's Natrium reactors are recognized as advanced SMRs, offering improved thermal efficiency, enhanced safety features, and a reduction in nuclear waste by approximately 40% compared to traditional reactors. The company recently secured a permit from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to construct an SMR plant in Wyoming, signaling a potential path toward commercialization.