This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.

Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.

25 January 2002
The Trilateral Coordination and Oversight Group (TCOG) concludes a one-day meeting in Seoul. The TCOG consists of government officials from the United States, South Korea, and Japan that meet to coordinate policy towards North Korea. The participants say North Korea will be an important topic during George W. Bush's trip to Asia in February, and that Bush's visits would "positively contribute to peace and stability on and around the Korean peninsula." A South Korean government official later reveals that the US delegation informs the Japanese and South Korean participants that the Bush administration will now require "step-by-step reciprocity from North Korea, and will spell out how North Korea will be punished or rewarded for future conduct."
—Tim Witcher, "North Korea to Be Feature of Bush's Asia Visit," Agence France Presse, 25 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis.nexis.com>; "US, South Korea and Japan Discuss North Korea Moves," Agence France Presse, 25 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis.nexis.com>; "U.S. to Keep North on a Short Leash," Joongang Ilbo, 7 February 2002, <http://english.joins.com>; Jong-Heon Lee, "Bush Visit Seen as Peace Builder," United Press International, 25 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis.nexis.com>; "TCOG Meeting," Korea Update, Vol. 13, No. 1, January 2002, p. 3.

29 January 2002
During his State of the Union Address, President George W. Bush says North Korea is part of an "axis of evil."
—George W. Bush, "The President's State of the Union Address," 29 January 2002, <http://www.whitehouse.gov>.

6 February 2002
South Korean President Kim Dae Jung says that nuclear and missile problems must be resolved peacefully. Kim says that recently North Korea has been harshly criticizing the United States because of the US attitude towards North Korea. Kim also says that there can be policy differences among allies, but that anti-Americanism is not in Korea's interest.
—Chŏng Jae Yong, "Kim Taet'ongnyŏng, 'Haek, Missile Munjae, Taehwaro Pulŏya'," Joongang Ilbo, 6 February 2002, <http://www.joins.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 6 February 2002, in "ROK Leader Says 'Anti-US' Voices 'No Help' to ROK-DPRK Relations," FBIS Document ID 200202060000121; Chŏng Chae Yong, "Kim Taet'ongnyŏng 'Taehwaro P'ulŏya'-1," Yonhap News Agency, 6 February 2002, <http://www.yonhapnews.co.kr>; "President Urges Dialogue with North Korea," Chosun Ilbo, 7 February 2002, <http://english.chosun.com>.

6 February 2002
Im Tong Wŏn, national security and unification advisor to the South Korean president, says that North Korea poses a threat to security on the Korean peninsula, but the threat must be reduced through peaceful dialogue. Im says that the use of military force will only result in the danger of igniting another Korean war.
—Kwŏn Kyŏng Bok, "Im T'ŭkpo 'P'yŏnghwajŏg'ŭro Anbowihyŏp Haeso'," Yonhap News Agency, 6 February 2002, <http://www.yonhapnews.net>.

6 February-6 March 2002
The first interim inspections of all light water reactors (LWR) under the ROK-IAEA LWR Enhanced Cooperation agreement are performed.
—Park Sung Gi, "First Inspection under ROK-IAEA LWR Enhanced Cooperation Performed," TCNC Newsletter, 1 March 2002, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr/Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

7 February 2002
South Korean Unification Minister Chŏn Se Hyŏn tells the National Assembly that the South Korean government will seek the opening of a direct air route between North Korea and South Korea to facilitate the construction of the light water reactors in North Korea under the Agreed Framework.
—Yonhap News Agency, 7 February 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Gov't Looking to Open Direct Air Route to N.K. for KEDO Project," FBIS Document ID KPP20020207000049.

8 February 2002
South Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Ch'oe Sŏng Hong tells the National Assembly that South Korea will take issue with North Korea's WMD programs when inter-ministerial talks resume. Ch'oe says that South Korea has told North Korea to address the suspicions surrounding its missile and WMD programs during the June 2000 summit and other occasions.
—Yonhap News Agency, 9 February 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Seoul to Issue Direct Appeal to Pyongyang over WMD," FBIS Document ID KPP20020209000014.

16 February 2002
South Korea's Ministry of Science and Technology and the Vietnam Atomic Energy Commission sign an agreement to promote the exchange of human resources, information and business projects on atomic energy.
—Yonhap News Agency, 16 February 2002, in "South Korea, Vietnam Sign Atomic Energy Agreement," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 16 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2002
During his visit to South Korea, George W. Bush says the United States has no intention of invading North Korea. Bush also says that he supports Kim Dae Jung's "sunshine policy" of engagement with North Korea, and that Washington is prepared to renew dialogue with Pyongyang.
—O P'ung Yŏn, Kim Su Chŏng, and Hong Wŏn Sang, "Bush, 'Pukch'imgong Ŭisa Ŏpta'," Taehan Maeil, 21 February 2002, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Min Bae, "Bush 'Pukch'imgong Ŭisa Ŏptta'," Chosun Ilbo, 20 February 2002, <http://www.chosun.com>;

March 2002
Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company's technicians find 32 cracks from stress corrosion cracking in the Yŏnggwang-3 nuclear power reactor's steam generator tubes. The cracks are plugged during a five and a half week maintenance outage of the unit. Officials from the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS) cite water chemistry problems as a possible cause for the cracks. KHNP officials plan to request a license from regulators to operate Yŏnggwang-3 and -4 with coolant temperatures 10 degrees below normal if necessary. This is the first time a crack is detected in the Westinghouse Combustion Engineering System 80 design reactor. [Note: Stress erosion cracks are found in the Yŏnggwang-4 reactor as well, and technicians expect to plug them during an outage scheduled for fall.]
—Mark Hibbs, "KHNP Finds SCC Cracking in First KSNP Steam Generators," Nucleonics Week, 6 June 2002, p. 4, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 March 2002
South Korea's Ministry of Unification allows the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS) to carry out safety projects in the construction of light water reactors in North Korea. The safety projects include inspections of safety and quality control, and safety education programs for North Korean nuclear experts.
—Yonhap News Agency, 7 March 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Gov't Allows KINS to Take Nuclear Safety Steps for KEDO Project," FBIS Document ID: KPP20020307000047.

12 March 2002
The CEO of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) steps down from his position amidst threats from the labor force to launch strikes over the government's plan to privatize the company. This is the second CEO of KEPCO to step down within three years. Both CEO's are close associates of President Kim Dae Jung.
—"Once Again, a Kepco CEO is Fired as Deregulation Comes Unhinged," Platts International Coal Report, 25 March 2002, p. 5, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Ku Cha Ryong, "Ch'oesubyŏng Hanjŏnsajang Sap'yo," Donga Ilbo, 13 March 2002, p. 15, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr/>.

14 March 2002
The Ministry Commerce, Industry and Energy announces that a coolant leak in the transformer caused the temporary shut down of the Wŏlsŏng-1 nuclear power reactor. According to the Ministry, the leak was detected on 13 March 2002, and the reactor is expected to be under repair for about eight days.
—Yonhap News Agency, 14 March 2002, in "South Korean Nuclear Reactor Shut Down After Coolant Leak," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 14 March 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Ku Cha Ryong, "Wŏlsŏng'wŏnjŏn 1 Hogi Kadong Chungdan," Donga Ilbo, 15 March 2002, p. 31, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

18 March 2002
The Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company (KHNP) announces it will sign an agreement with Romania's National Company Nuclearelectrica on 19 March 2002. Under the agreement, KHNP will provide technical assistance for the operation of the Cernavoda-1 Nuclear Power Plant and will help establish the second nuclear power plant that is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2005.
—Yonhap News Agency, 18 March 2002, in "South Korea to Enter Nuclear Power Plant Business in Romania," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 18 March 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Bucharest Mediafax, 18 March 2002, in "Korean Nuclear Power Company to Sign Technical Assistance Accord with Romania," FBIS Document ID: EUP20020318000429.

27 March 2002
The Ministry of Science and Technology and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute inaugurate a center for regional nuclear cooperation. South Korea first requested that Seoul be chosen as the site to house an International Atomic Energy Agency regional cooperation center two years ago at the Asia-Pacific Regional Cooperation Asia meeting in India. South Korea has agreed to host and finance the center for a two year interim period. During this period, the center will focus on establishing a legal framework for future operations.
—Mark Hibbs, "Korea Inaugurates Center for Regional Technical Cooperation," Nucleonics Week, 18 April 2002, p. 10, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

April 2002
France signs cooperation agreements with three South Korean research organizations during the annual Korean Atomic Industrial Forum. The agreement with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) renews a 1997 agreement on collaboration in the production and use of radioisotopes, the development of technology for reactor physics, and in the dismantlement of nuclear facilities. The agreement with the Korea Institute of Energy is for cooperation in energy storage and fuel cells, and the agreement with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology is for cooperation in the field of fuel cell development.
—"Agreements Signed for Three R&D Projects," Nuclear News, June 2002, p. 61, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

April 2002
The South Korean government lifts security alerts imposed at all nuclear power plant sites following the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in the US. Instead, the government is now focusing on the older nuclear reactors that are more vulnerable to internal sabotage, and on other threats such as an attack on off-site power supplies. The Ministry of Science and Technology plans to conduct a research project to improve the physical protection of nuclear power plants beyond the current requirements.
—Mark Hibbs, "ROK Lifts Plant Security Alert After Heeding Blackout Warning," Nucleonics Week, 25 April 2002, p. 7, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

Early April 2002
The Joint Standing Committee on US-Korea Nuclear Cooperation is held in Seoul. The two sides discuss the possibilities of bilateral cooperation in fast breeder reactor research. South Korea has wanted to develop this technology, but the US has consistently discouraged any efforts related to cooperation with US companies. However, the Ministry of Science and Technology has made plans to go ahead and hopes to finish a detailed design of a 150MW(e) pool type fast reactor with a uranium-plutonium core. The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) worked out the preliminary design in 1997 and completed a conceptual design in April 2002. Korean officials hope to finish the project, but expect to run into problems as South Korea does not possess any separated plutonium.
—Mark Hibbs, "KAERI Hopes DOE Cooperation Lifts Fast Breeder Effort," Nucleonics Week, 2 May 2002, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2-4 April 2002
The second subcommittee meeting of the 12th Meeting of the Korea-Saudi Arabia Joint Committee is held in Seoul. During the meeting the two sides agree to increase cooperation in the field of atomic energy. South Korean officials provide information on their development of the 330MW(e) thermal System Integrated Modular Advanced Reactor (SMART) for desalination purposes. Saudi Arabian officials express interest in bilateral research cooperation in radiation technology, safety, the impact of radiation techniques, the utilization on polymers, the environment, food production and health care.
—"Korea, Saudi Arabia Agree to Cooperate in Atomic Field," Ministry of Science and Technology, 8 April 2002, <http://www.most.go.kr>.

5 April 2002
The Ulchin-4 nuclear power reactor experiences a tube rupture in a steam generator causing technicians to activate the emergency cooling system. The rupture was discovered during planned maintenance in which the reactor was shut down. The incident is classified as level one on the International Nuclear Event Scale (INES) because all safety systems functioned properly and operators acted accordingly. Officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology say the exact cause of the rupture will not be known until experts from South Korea, the US and Germany conduct an examination.
—Mark Hibbs, "Ulchin-4 Steam Generator Tube Leak Termed a Rupture, ECCS Activated," Nucleonics Week, 20 June 2002, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Ann MacLachlan, "Root Cause of Ulchin-4 Rupture Isn't Obvious, Regulators Say," Nucleonics Week, 20 June 2002, p. 15, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Cho Hong Sŏp, "Ulchinwŏnjŏn Naenggaksu Nuch'ul/4 Hogi Chŭnggigwan P'ayŏl 45t Hŭllŏ Pangsanŭngŭn Ansae," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 28 May 2002, p. 19, in KINDS, <http://www/kinds.or.kr>.

25 April 2002
Romania's Autonomous Nuclear Activity Utility (RANN) is expected to bid for Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company's international tender for heavy water. Last year, Romania sold 16 metric tons of heavy water to South Korea.
—Bucharest Rompress, 25 April 2002, in "Romania to Participate in Tender to Supply Heavy Water to South Korea," FBIS Document ID: EUP20020425000147.

Late April 2002
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announces it will establish an international program to coordinate emergency response activities for a radiological emergency in Korea, China or Japan. The program will also provide a framework for technical assistance during a radiological emergency. The South Korean government decides to support this program due to fears that any sort of nuclear accident in China or Japan will dampen the political acceptance of Korea's nuclear energy program.
—Mark Hibbs, "South Korea Seeks to Coordinate Emergency Response with China, Japan," Inside NRC, 22 April 2002, p. 7, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

Late April 2002
The Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company (KHNP) sets 2003 as the beginning date to designate a site for radioactive waste and interim storage of spent fuel. KHNP and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy hope to select three or four possible sites by August or September 2002 and make a final decision by the end of 2002. The government's previous efforts to select a site by application were unsuccessful as no applications were received due to the lack of support from local citizens to host a waste site. According to some officials, KHNP will focus its efforts on communities that already host a nuclear power plant, and they site Yŏnggwang as a possible candidate.
—Mark Hibbs, "South Korea Aims to Select Site for LLW, Spent Fuel by Early 2003," Nucleonics Week, 2 May 2002, p. 19, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

May 2002
According to a Nuclear Fuel report, officials at the Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company (KHNP) do not support any plans to build a fast breeder reactor. In addition, KHNP is not in a hurry to reprocess spent fuel and extract plutonium. Officials from the South Korean government and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) expressed interest in these projects to the US last month, hoping to gain approval to move forward. However, KHNP officials feel the financial burden of constructing eight more nuclear reactors by 2015 is too much for the company, and they expect the government to finance the fast breeder reactor if a decision is made to move forward with the project.
—Mark Hibbs, "KHNP Finding Market Deregulation Disincentive to Close Fuel Cycle," Nuclear Fuel, 13 May 2002, p. 4, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 May 2002
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announces it will construct a state of the art radiation application research center with a scheduled completion for next year. KAERI hopes to use the new research center to develop new technologies for bioengineering, the environment, medicine, agriculture, and food science.
—Pak Hui Pom, Chonja Sinmun, "KAERI's High-Tech Radiation Application Research Center Construction Gets Underway," 9 May 2002, in "ROK Atomic Energy Institute Building Radiation Research Center," FBIS Document ID: KPP20020510000109.

21 May 2002
The Yŏnggwang-5 nuclear power reactor begins commercial operation. Yŏnggwang-5 is a 1,000MW(e) pressurized water reactor (PWR).
—Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), "Han'guk Suryŏg'wŏnjaryŏk (Chu) Yŏngwang'wŏnjaryŏk Ponbu," <http://www.khnp.co.kr/youngkwg/
company/company02.html%20>; An Kyŏng Ho, "Yŏnggwang'wŏnjŏn 5 Hogi Sang'ŏpkadong Kaeshi...Chunkonghŏga Anpada Mulŭi," Hankook Ilbo, 1 June 2002, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.

Mid 2002
US government officials say they will not support South Korean efforts to develop a fast breeder reactor. South Korean officials have used the term liquid metal reactor (LMR) to emphasize the project as reactor development rather than a fuel cycle program, but according to US officials, they are both potential breeders, which the US cannot support on nonproliferation grounds.
—Mark Hibbs, "Korean Fast Reactor Program on Leach, US Officials Say," Nucleonics Week, 11 July 2002, p. 8, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 June 2002
Government delegations from the United States, Japan, and South Korea hold a Trilateral Coordination and Oversight Group (TCOG) meeting in San Francisco. The three sides agree about the importance of holding "comprehensive and flexible talks with North Korea." The US and Japanese delegations reaffirm support for Kim Dae Jung's policy of engagement with Pyongyang, and for the implementation of the Agreed Framework.
—Press Statement, Richard Boucher, Spokesman, "Joint Statement by the Trilateral Coordination and Oversight Group," US Department of State, 18 June 2002, <http://www.state.gov>; "U.S. Hopes to Ease N. Korea Tension – AP," Joongang Ilbo, 19 June 2002, <http://english.joins.com>; Shim Jae-yun, "ROK Urges US to Upgrade Level for Dialogue with NK," Korea Times, 21 June 2002, <http://www.hk.co.kr/times.htm>; Kim Ji-ho, "North Korea Urged to Allow International Nuclear Inspection," Korea Herald, 20 June 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>.

29 June 2002
North and South Korean naval forces clash in coastal waters off the west coast. One South Korean vessel is sunk and four sailors are killed. North Korean casualties are estimated to be about 30. During the skirmish, South Korean elint indicates that North Korean radars have been turned on for ship-borne anti-ship Styx missiles and for Silkworm missiles based onshore. The South Korean vessels disperse chaff as a countermeasure and reportedly break off their aggressive pursuit of the North Korean vessels in fear that North Korea could respond with a missile attack, which would potentially result in a serious escalation of the conflict.
—"The Naval Clash on the Yellow Sea on 29 June 2002 between South and North Korea: The Situation and ROK's Position," Ministry of National Defense, Republic of Korea, 1 July 2002, <http://www.mnd.go.kr>; "Pukhan'gun'ŭi NLL Ch'imbŏm Mit Tobal'gwa Uri Kun'ŭi Taeŭng," Ministry of National Defense, Republic of Korea, 2 July 2002, <http://www.mnd.go.kr>; "Sŏhae'gyojŏn Chosa Kyŏl'gwa [Sŏhae'gyojŏnsat'ae Kwallyŏn Podo Briefing ('02.7.7)]," Ministry of National Defense, Republic of Korea, 7 July 2002; Ministry of National Defense, 7 July 2002, in "ROK Defense Ministry Announces Investigation Results of West Sea Clash—Graphics," FBIS Document ID: KPP20020707000007; Hwang Jang-jin, "N.K Readied Anti-Ship Missiles During Naval Exchange of Fire," Korea Herald, 5 July 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>; Yonhap News Agency, 4 July 2002, in "ROK DefMin (sic) Refutes Criticism, Says DPRK Was Preparing Missile Launch in Sea Clash," FBIS Document ID: KPP20020704000034; Hwang Jang-jin, "S. Korea, U.S. Analyze Communications During West Sea Skirmish with N. Korea," Korea Herald, 1 July 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>; Hwang Jang-jin, "South, North Exchange Fire in West Sea," Korea Herald, 30 June 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>; Doug Struck, "N. Korea Sends Contradictory Signals," Washington Post, 1 July 2002, p. 12; Yonhap News Agency, 7 July 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Misinformation Causes Navy's Meager Reaction to N. K. Provocation," FBIS Document ID: KPP20020707000010; "S. Korean Military to Blame for Armed Clash in West Sea," Korean Central News Agency, 30 June 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "Sŏhaemujangch'ungdolsa'gŏn Taehan Namjosŏn Tanggug'ŭi Palp'yo'nŭn Nalcho / Chosŏn'inmin'gun Haegunsaryŏngbu Taebyŏn'in," Korean Central News Agency, 30 June 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "U.S. Is to Blame for Armed Clash in West Sea of Korea," Korean Central News Agency, 1 July 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "Migug'ŭn Sŏhaemujangch'ungdolsa'gŏn'ŭi Ch'aeg'im'esŏ Chŏltaero Pŏs'ŏ Nalsu Ŏpta / Chosŏn'oemusŏngdaebyŏn'in," Korean Central News Agency, 1 July 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.

2 July 2002
A 25-member North Korean delegation arrives in South Korea to participate in a training program as part of the LWR construction project under the Agreed Framework. The delegation is led by Kim Yŏng Il, a director in North Korea's Nuclear Safety Regulatory Committee (核安全監督委員會), and the group will receive training at the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (韓國原子力安全技術院) in Taejŏn. The group is scheduled to stay in South Korea until 27 July.
—Seo Hyun-jin, "N.K. Officials Her for Nuclear Reactor Training," Korea Herald, 3 July 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>; "N. Korean Nuclear Experts Visit South for Safety Training," Yonhap News Agency, 3 July 2002, <http://www.yonhapnews.net>; Lee Yŏng Chong, "Pukhan Kyŏngsuro Anjŏn'yowŏn 25 Myŏng Ipkuk," Joongang Ilbo, 2 July 2002, <http://www.joins.com>; Mun Kwan Hyŏn, "Pukkyŏngsuro Anjŏn'yowŏn 25 Myŏng Yejŏngdaero Naehan," Joongang Ilbo, 2 July 2002, <http://www.joins.com>.

11 July 2002
In Hanoi, South Korea and Vietnam sign a memorandum of understanding on the peaceful use of atomic energy.
—Vietnam News Briefs, 15 July 2002, in "Vietnam, South Korea Sign MOU Regarding Atomic Energy," Vietnam Economic Times, 12 July 2002, p. 3, Saigon Times Daily, 12 July 2002, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 July 2002
The Wŏlsŏng-2 nuclear power reactor experiences a small leakage of heavy water from a valve of the secondary cooler system. The leak exposes 10 workers to radiation.
—Yonhap News Agency, 19 July 2002, in "Korean Nuclear Reactor Leaks Heavy Water," Asia Pulse, 19 July 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Chae San, "Kyŏngbuk/Wŏlsŏng'wŏnjŏn 2 Hogi Chungsu Sae 10 Yŏmyŏng Pangsanŭng'e' Noch'ul," Kukmin Ilbo, 19 July 2002, p. 27, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

20 July 2002
The North Korean airline Air Koryo conducts the first direct inter-Korean flight to transport South Koreans working on the KEDO light water reactor project from Yangyang, Kang'wŏn Province, South Korea to Sŏndŏk-ri, Chŏngp'yŏng-kun, South Hamgyŏng Province, North Korea.
—"DPRK Plane Makes Second Inter-Korean Direct Air Route Fly," Xinhua News Agency, 15 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Lee Dong Jun, "Nambuk Chikhangno Onŭl Kaet'ong," Hankook Ilbo, 20 July 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Hwang Chae Sŏng, "Nambuk Chikhangno 20 Il Shihŏmbihaeng," Donga Ilbo, 17 July 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

25 July 2002
An official of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) says the firm has recently signed a contract with Kazakhstan to purchase 800 tons of yellow cake each year for eight years starting in 2006. In addition, the yellow cake will undergo a downstream process of enrichment and concentration in either Kazakhstan or Russia before being imported to South Korea. According to KEPCO officials, the direct import of yellow cake will save the company $30 million in nuclear fuel costs per year.
—Cha Byung Hak, "KEPCO to Buy Kazakhstan Yellow Cake," Chosun Ilbo, 25 July 2002, <http://english.chosun.com/>.

7 August 2002
KEDO holds a ceremony in Kŭmho-chigu, Shinp'o to mark the pouring of concrete for the construction of the first light water reactor under the Agreed Framework. Charles Pritchard, US Representative to KEDO, attends the ceremony and says, "The United States will continue to abide by the terms of this accord [the Agreed Framework] so long as North Korea does the same." Pritchard says that under the construction schedule, KEDO will deliver key components to the first reactor in mid 2005, and therefore, North Korea and the IAEA need to begin the safeguards inspection process now.
—Charles L. Pritchard, "North Korea's Nuclear Program: Light Water Reactor Project," Remarks at KEDO Concrete Pouring Ceremony, 7 August 2002, <http://www.state.gov>; Kwon Kyung-bok, "KEDO Celebrates Next Phase Construction," Chosun Ilbo, 7 August 2002, <http://english.chosun.com>; Lee Young-jong, "Ceremony for Nuclear Reactors Draws Criticism," Joongang Ilbo, 6 August 2002, <http://english.joins.com>; Nicholas Kralev, "North Korea to Lay Base for Reactor," Washington Times, 6 August 2002, p. 1, <http://www.washtimes.com>; Kyodo News Service, 6 August 2002, in "KEDO Team Leaves for Ceremony on N. Korean Nuclear Reactor," FBIS Document ID: JPP20020806000098; Seo Hyun-jin, "KEDO Leaders Discuss Nuclear Project before launch of New Construction Stage," Korea Herald, 6 August 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>; "KEDO Celebrates Next Phase of Nuclear Project in N. Korea," Korea Herald, 7 August 2002, <http://www.koreaherald.co.kr>.

9 August 2002
Doosan Heavy Industry and Construction Company wins the bidding for a $1.66 billion (2 trillion won) contract with the Korea Hydro and Nuclear power Company (KHNP). Doosan will supply nuclear facilities and turbine generators to four planned nuclear power plants in Kori and Wŏlsŏng that are expected to be completed in 2009 and 2010. KHNP grants Korea Power Engineering Corporation a $415.45 million (500 billion won) contract to perform design work for the nuclear reactors.
—"Doosan Heavy Wins US $1.66 bln. Deal to Supply Nuclear Equipment," Asia Pulse, 9 August 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 August 2002
Westinghouse Electric Company announces it has been awarded a $350 million contract by Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction. The contract calls for Westinghouse to provide components, instrumentation control equipment, and technical and engineering support services for four nuclear power plants to be built in South Korea.
—"Westinghouse Builds on Worldwide Nuclear Power Expansion," Business Wire, 30 August 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Mark Hibbs, "Westinghouse Signs Contract for Four PWRs in Korea," Inside NRC, 12 August 2002, p. 17, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 August 2002
Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction receives a contract from Westinghouse to supply $68 million worth of equipment for a nuclear power plant in Tennessee. The equipment includes four steam generators for a 1,200MW(e) light water reactor.
—Yonhap News Agency, 14 August 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Doosan Heavy Wins $68 Mln. Power Equipment Contract," FBIS Document ID: KPP20020814000031; Kim Hŭng Yŏl, "Tusanchung, Mi Westinghouse'e Chŭnggibalsaenggi 6 Ch'ŏn 8 Paengmanbul Such'ul," Han'guk Kyŏngje, 15 August 2002, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

15 August 200
The 6th Permanent Coordinating Group (PCG) meeting between South Korea's Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) and the US Department of Energy is held in Washington, DC. The two sides discuss current and future cooperative research programs. Current programs include the development of human resources for nuclear safeguard inspections, the development and implementation of safeguard systems for DUPIC (Direct Use of spent PWR fuel in CANDU), and the development of remote monitoring and physical protection systems.
—Park Il Jin, "6th PCG Meeting Held in Washington DC," TCNC Newsletter, 1 September 2002, <http://www.tcnc.kaeri.re.kr/
Newsletter/tcncnews.htm>.

September 2002
India's Heavy Water Board announces it has signed a contract this year to supply a small quantity of heavy water to South Korea, but does not specify the amount or the value of the contract. India exported 100 metric tons of heavy water to South Korea in 1996.
—Sunil Saraf, "India to Export Heavy Water to Korea," Nuclear Fuel, 30 September 2002, p. 10, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 September 2002
The Trilateral Coordination and Oversight Group (TCOG) meeting is held in Seoul. The delegations from the United States, Japan and South Korea were led by Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs James A. Kelly, Director General of Asian and Oceanian Affairs Hitoshi Tanaka, and Deputy Foreign Minister Lee Tae Shik. The three sides reconfirm their goal of resolving the issue of North Korea's WMD and missile programs through dialogue, and "highlight the importance of improved implementation of the Agreed Framework." [Note: Later reports indicate that while in Seoul, James Kelly briefs the South Korean government on US intelligence regarding North Korea's uranium enrichment program.]
—"Korea - Trilateral Coordination and Oversight Group Joint Statement," Press Statement, Richard Boucher, Spokesman, US Department of State, 9 September 2002, <http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2002/13328pf.htm>; "ROK, US, Japan Positively Assess Pyongyang's Move Toward Dialogue," Korea Times, 9 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "ROK, US, Japan Launch Trilateral Talks on NK," Korea Times, 7 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kyodo News Service, "U.S., S. Korea Express Support Koizumi's Visit," Japan Economic Newswire, 7 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Ji-ho, "Three Nations to Discuss Koizumi's Visit," Korea Herald, 6 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Lee Chong Hun, "[Puk Haekkaebal'gyehoek P'amun] Pyongyang Hoedamsŏ Pukshiin Ŏdŏnaegikkaji," Donga Ilbo, 17 October 2002, <http://www.donga.com>; Sŏ Ŭi Tong, "TCOG Hoeŭi Kyŏlsan / Mi 'Palbbarŭn Pukhaengbo' Chin'ŭi'p'aakchuryŏk," Munhwa Ilbo, 7 September 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Su Chŏng, "TCOG Muŏl Non'ŭihana/ Nampuk-Pug'il'gwangye Kaesŏn Sokto-Panghyang Choyulhaltŭt," Taehan Maeil, 7 September 2002, p. 3, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

14 September 2002
South Korea joins 17 other countries in adopting a joint statement calling for the early implementation of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).
—Yonhap News Agency, 15 September 2002, in "South Korea Adopts Joint Statement on Test Ban Treaty," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 16 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 September 2002
South Korea and the US agree to cooperate in developing a nuclear reactor that can isolate plutonium. The purpose of this joint project is to develop technology so that plutonium from spent fuel can be reused in nuclear power reactors.
—O Ch'un Ho, "Haeg'yŏllyo Chaesayong Kisulgaebal Ch'ujin..Wŏnja'p'okt'an Wŏllyo P'ŭllut'onyum Saengsanch'adan," Han'guk Kyŏngje', 17 September 2002, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Mun Byŏng Do, "Han Mi 4 Sedaewŏnjŏn Kongdonggaebal," Seoul Kyŏngje', 17 September 2002, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

19 September 2002
During a meeting on energy development policies, South Korean officials estimate that the country's nuclear energy facilities will increase 70 percent by 2010.
—"70% Expansion Forecast for S Korean Nuclear Facilities by 2010," Asia Pulse, 19 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

3-5 October 2002
US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs James Kelly leads a delegation to Pyongyang to discuss various bilateral issues. While in Pyongyang Kelly meets with First Vice Foreign Minister Kang Sŏk Chu and Vice Foreign Minister Kim Kye Kwan. On the first day of the talks, Kelly offers no specific evidence, but says the United States has evidence that North Korea has been pursuing a program to produce highly enriched uranium for nuclear weapons. The North Korean delegation initially denies the allegations, but on the second day of the talks, the North Korean delegation admits to having such a program. North Korean media describe Kelley's attitude as "arrogant" during the talks. Later, a "high-ranking South Korean government official" says that Kang proposed to link US nuclear suspicions and a reduction in conventional forces with the United States lifting economic sanctions and changing its hostile policy towards North Korea. [Note: US press reports suggest that the evidence regarding North Korea's uranium enrichment program is based on the discovery that North Korea has been attempting to acquire large amounts of high-strength aluminum for gas-centrifuges.]
—"US Special Envoy Leaves Pyongyang," Xinhua News Agency, 5 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Min-bai, "Government Stresses Dialogue on Nuclear Issue," Chosun Ilbo, 17 October 2002, <http://english.chosun.com>; Press Statement, Richard Boucher, Spokesman, "North Korean Nuclear Program," U.S. Department of State, 16 October 2002, <http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2002/14432.htm>; James A. Kelly, "U.S.-East Asia Policy: Three Aspects," Remarks at the Woodrow Wilson Center, Washington, D.C., 11 December 2002, <http://www.state.gov/p/eap/rls/rm/
2002/15875pf.htm>; Joby Warrick, "U.S. Followed the Aluminum: Pyongyang's Efforts to Buy Metal Was Tip to Plans," Washington Post, 18 October 2002, <http://www.washingtonpost.com>; Oh Young-hwan, "North Continued Nuclear-Arms Project," Joongang Ilbo, 18 October 2002, <http://english.joins.com>; "Spokesman for DPRK FM on DPRK Visit of Special Envoy of U.S. President," Korean Central News Agency, 7 October 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; Andrea Koppel and John King, "U.S.: North Korea Admits Nuke Program," CNN, 16 October 2002, <http://www.cnn.com>.

10 December 2002
The Ulchin-4 nuclear power reactor is temporarily shut down due to an unidentified malfunction in the generation system.
—"South Korean Nuclear Reactor Shut Down By Malfunction," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 10 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 October 2002
Richard Boucher, spokesman for the US State Department, announces that during high-level talks in Pyongyang held from 3-5 October, US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs James Kelly presented his North Korean hosts with recently acquired US evidence that indicates North Korea has been pursuing a nuclear weapons program based on uranium enrichment. According to Boucher, North Korean officials acknowledged the existence of a uranium enrichment program when meeting with Kelley. This program, Boucher claims, is a serious violation of North Korea's commitments under the Agreed Framework, the NPT, its IAEA safeguards agreement and the Joint North-South Declaration on the Denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula. "Over the summer," Boucher says, "President Bush—in consultations with our allies and friends—had developed a bold approach to improve relations with North Korea." Boucher continues, "In light of our concern about the North's nuclear weapons program, however, we are unable to pursue this approach." [Note: US press reports suggest that the evidence regarding North Korea's uranium enrichment program is based on the discovery that North Korea has been attempting to acquire large amounts of high-strength aluminum for gas-centrifuges.]
—Press Statement, Richard Boucher, Spokesman, "North Korean Nuclear Program," U.S. Department of State, 16 October 2002, <http://www.state.gov/r/
pa/prs/ps/2002/14432.htm>; Joby Warrick, "U.S. Followed the Aluminum: Pyongyang's Efforts to Buy Metal Was Tip to Plans," Washington Post, 18 October 2002, <http://www.washingtonpost.com>.

17 October 2002
South Korea, Japan, and China stress the importance of continued engagement with North Korean following the revelation that North Korea has been pursuing a clandestine nuclear weapons program based on uranium enrichment technology. Tokyo pledges to continue normalization talks with North Korea scheduled to resume 29 October, but Japanese officials claim that they will suspend the talks if North Korea fails to comply with the Agreed Framework. Im Sŏng Jun, South Korean national security adviser, says that Seoul regards the admission "as a sign North Korea is willing to resolve this problem through dialogue." In addition, according to a Blue House statement, Seoul will continue with its plan to send an aid package consisting of 400,000 tons of rice and 100,000 tons of fertilizer. However, "if public sentiment worsens here," a Seoul official says, "it will be difficult to give any additional aid." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue says that China continues to oppose the introduction of nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula but believes the issue "should be settled through dialogue and negotiations."
—Peter S. Goodman and John Pomfret, "N. Korea Weapons Disclosure Surprises Neighbors: South Korea, Japan to Continue Dialogue with Pyongyang," Washington Post, 17 October 2002, <http://www.washingtonpost.com>; Oh Young-Hwan, "North Continued Nuclear-Arms Program," Joongang Ilbo, 18 October 2002, <http://english.joins.com>.

17 October 2002
The Blue House (Ch'ŏng'wadae), the South Korean presidential residence, issues a statement regarding North Korea's admission to having a uranium enrichment program to US envoy James Kelly. Im Sŏng Jun, Senior Secretary to the President for Foreign Affairs and National Security, says President Kim Dae Jung considers the issue very serious and that Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons is unacceptable. However, the government considers the candid admission a sign that North Korea is prepared to resolve the issue through dialogue. The South Korean government's position is that the issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue. The spokesman calls on North Korea fulfill its commitments under the NPT, Agreed Framework, and the Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
—"A Senior Secretary to the President Remarks on North Korea's Suspected Development of Nuclear Weapons," Press Release, 17 October 2002, <http://www.bluehouse.go.kr/english>; "Pukhan Haekkaebal Ŭihok Kwallyŏn Briefing," Ch'ŏng'wadae Soshik, 17 October 2002, <http://www.bluehouse.go.kr>; Lee Rae Un and Hwang Chae Hun, "Chŏngbu 'Pukhaek Taehwahae'gyŏl Ch'ujin," Yonhap News Agency, 17 October 2002, <http://bbs.yonhapnews.net>.

18 October 2002
Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction Company ships four steam generators for use in a nuclear power plant in Tennessee. Doosan won the $50 million contract in September 1999. This is the first export of key nuclear power equipment by South Korea to the US.
—"Doosan Heavy Makes Korea's First Export of Nuclear Power Station," Korea Herald, 19 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 October 2002
An official at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) says he doubts that North Korea has the technology and the capability to enrich uranium. According to the official, North Korea's recent admission of its nuclear program is a "gesture to move towards the free world."
—Yonhap News Agency, 18 October 2002, in "South Korean Atomic Energy Official Says Unlikely North Has Enriched Uranium," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 18 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 October 2002
In testimony before the National Assembly's National Defense Committee, South Korea's Minister of National Defense Lee Jun says it is still uncertain whether North Korea has completed or is operating an HEU production facility. He also says that North Korea should be able to use a uranium bomb without testing it.
—Ch'oe Sŏng Uk, "'Haekkaebalgwallyŏn Pug'umjig'im Chŏngbo, Kelly Pangbukchŏn Al'atta'/Ch'oe Oe'gyo-Lee Kukpang Kukhoedappyŏn," Hankook Ilbo, 19 October 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Dong Hun, "Puk Haekkabal Kyehoek P'amun/Kukhoe T'ong'oet'ong'wi-Kukpang'wi Ch'okku," Hankryoreh Shinmun, 19 October 2002, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Dong Hun, "Han-Mi 'Puk Haekkaebal' Al'go Issŏtta'/Ch'oe Sŏng Hong Oe'gyobujanggwan Palghyŏ," Hankryoreh Shinmun, 19 October 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

18 October 2002
In testimony before the National Assembly's Unification, Foreign Affairs and Trade Committee, Minister of Unification Ch'oe Sŏng Hong says that the South Korean government had some information regarding North Korea's uranium enrichment program before James Kelly's visit to Pyongyang the first week of October. However, Ch'oe says the government was only able to grasp the details of the intelligence in August 2002.
—Ch'oe Sŏng Uk, "'Haekkaebalgwallyŏn Pug'umjig'im Chŏngbo, Kelly Pangbukchŏn Al'atta'/Ch'oe Oe'gyo-Lee Kukpang Kukhoedappyŏn," Hankook Ilbo, 19 October 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Dong Hun, "Puk Haekkabal Kyehoek P'amun/Kukhoe T'ong'oet'ong'wi-Kukpang'wi Ch'okku," Hankryoreh Shinmun, 19 October 2002, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Kim Dong Hun, "Han-Mi 'Puk Haekkaebal' Al'go Issŏtta'/Ch'oe Sŏng Hong Oe'gyobujanggwan Palghyŏ," Hankryoreh Shinmun, 19 October 2002, p. 2, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

18 October 2002
South Korea's National Assembly adopts a resolution calling for North Korea to immediately abandon all programs to develop weapons of mass destruction. However, rival political parties differ on the details for addressing North Korea's nuclear program.
—Yonhap News Agency, 18 October 2002, in "ROK Nat'l Assembly Adopts Resolution on DPRK's Nuclear Weapons Development," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021018000095; "Lawmakers Unite On Issue of NK Nukes," Korea Times, 18 October 2002, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; "Nuclear Issue Divides Parties," Korea Times, 19 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Nam Chŏng Ho and Pak Shin Hong, "Pukhan Haek P'amun/ Kukhoe Kukpang-T'ong'oet'ong'wi Pukhaek Hanmoksori Pinan," Joongang Ilbo, 19 October 2002, p. 5, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

19-22 October 2002
North and South Korea hold their Eight Inter-Ministerial Talks in Pyongyang. The two sides discuss a number of economic issues, and issue a joint statement that includes, "The North and the South agreed to make common efforts to guarantee peace and security on the Korean peninsula, consistent with the spirit of the June 15 Joint Declaration, and to actively cooperate to resolve all problems through dialogue, including the nuclear issue." North Korean officials tell South Korean Minister of Unification Chŏng Se Hyŏn that Pyongyang is willing to resolve the nuclear issue if the United States first changes its hostile policy towards North Korea.
—"Joint Press Release of the Eighth Inter-Korean Ministerial Talks," 22 October 2002, <http://www.unikorea.go.kr>; "Che 8 Ch'a Nambukchanggwan'gŭphoedam Kongdongbodomun," 22 October 2002, <http://www.unikorea.go.kr>; Charles Whelan, "South Fails to Extract Nuclear Pledge from North," Agence France Presse, 23 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Inter-Korea Talks Stalled over Nuclear Statement," Agence France Presse, 22 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim In Ku, "Nambuk 'Pukhaek Taehwaro Hae'gyŏl'," Chosun Ilbo, 23 October 2002, <http://nk.chosun.com>; "Chŏng T'ong'il 'Puk, Chŏktae Anhamyŏn Anbomunje P'unda'," Chosun Ilbo, 23 October 2002, <http://nk.chosun.com>; Pak Rok Sam, "'Pukhaek Taehwa Hae'gyŏl' Kŭkchŏk T'a'gyŏl," Taehan Maeil, 22 October 2002, <http://www.kdaily.com>; "Pukhaekkaebal P'amun...Taehwaro Hae'gyŏl," Chosun Ilbo, 23 October 2002, <http://nk.chosun.com>; Lee Young-jong, "North 'Listens' to Protest of Its Bomb Program," Joongang Ilbo, 21 October 2002, <http://english.joins.com>; "North Fails to Respond on Nuclear Issue," Chosun Ilbo, 20 October 2002, <http://english.chosun.com>; "8th Inter-Korean Ministerial Talks Open," Korean Central News Agency, 21 October 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "Joint Press Release on 8th Inter-Korean Ministerial Talks Published," Korean Central News Agency, 23 October 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; "Che 8 Ch'a Pungnamsanggŭphoedam'i Kkŭtnatta / Kongdongbodomun," Korean Central News Agency, 23 October 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>; Yonhap News Agency, 20 October 2002, in "Atmosphere at 20 Oct ROK-DPRK Ministerial Talks Reportedly 'Heavy and Serious'," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021020000016.

20 October 2002
Operations at theUlchin-1 nuclear power reactor are suspended due to problems with the power transmitter. According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, the accident is classified as zero grade, which means it has no impact on nuclear security. [Note: The problem also occurs on 26 October.]
—Yonhap News Agency, 28 October 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Problems in Generator Cause Suspension of Uljin Nuclear Reactor," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021028000024.

26 October 2002
Operations at the Ulchin-1 nuclear power reactor are suspended due to problems with the power transmitter. According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, the accident is classified as zero grade, which means it has no impact on nuclear security.
—Yonhap News Agency, 28 October 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Problems in Generator Cause Suspension of Uljin Nuclear Reactor," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021028000024.

3 November 2002
Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction Company and British Nuclear Fuel agree to collaborate in the power industry in South Korea and other countries. The agreement calls for joint projects in the global nuclear energy market, co-development of next generation nuclear technology, and corporate cultural exchanges.
—"Doosan Heavy Joins British Power Giant," Korea Herald, 4 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 November 2002
During a series of summit meetings in Phnom Penh organized by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, Chinese Premier Zhu Rong Ji, and South Korean Prime Minister Kim Sŏk Su agree that North Korean should abandon its nuclear weapons program. The three sides say they will pressure Pyongyang into resolving the issue in a peaceful manner.
—Kyodo News Service, 4 November 2002, in "Japan, China, S. Korea Urge N. Korea to Keep 1994 Accord," FBIS Document ID: JPP20021104000071; "Three Northeast Asian Leaders Discuss Ways to Resolve N. K. Nuclear Issue," Korea Herald, 5 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Japan, China, S. Korea Allied on N. Korea's Nuke," Jiji Press, 4 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 November 2002
The South Korean Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy (MOCIE) announces the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Vietnam. According to the MOU, South Korea will work with Vietnam to build nuclear power plants in Vietnam with a target date of 2017 to begin operation. The Korean Hydro and Nuclear Power Company (KHNP) will collaborate in nuclear plant construction, selection of plant types, security, waste management, and education of personnel.
—Yonhap News Agency, 11 November 2002, in "Korea to Help Vietnam Build Nuclear Power Plants," Asia Pulse, 11 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 November 2002
South Korea and Chile sign a nuclear cooperation agreement in Seoul. According to the agreement, the two countries will cooperate in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy including research and development, and the construction of nuclear power plants.
— Yonhap News Agency, 12 November 2002, in "Korea, Chile Sign Nuclear Cooperation Agreement," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 12 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 November 2002
KEDO's executive board meets in New York and decides to suspend shipments of heavy fuel oil to North Korea beginning with the shipment of December 2002. [Note: The oil shipment now in route from Singapore will be allowed to continue.]
—"KEDO Executive Board Meeting Concludes – November 14, 2002," 14 November 2002, <http://www.kedo.org>; Don Kirk, "Korea Leader Backs Plan to Block Oil to the North," New York Times, 15 November 2002, <http://www.nytimes.com>; Yonhap News Agency, 15 November 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: KEDO Agrees to Suspend Oil Provision to N.K. from December," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021115000008; "[KEDO] Chiphaeng'isahoe Sŏngmyŏng <Chŏnmun>," Chosun Ilbo, 15 November 2002, <http://www.chosun.com>; Kim Chae Ho, "[KEDO] Pukkyŏngsurosaŏp Chungdan Shisa," Chosun Ilbo, 15 November 2002, <http://www.chosun.com>.

15 November 2002
The Ministry of Unification expresses disappointment over the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization's (KEDO) decision to halt heavy oil shipments to North Korea. The Minister of Unification states that he fears a tough US stance will have a negative impact on North-South relations.
—Yonhap News Agency, 15 November 2002, in "South Korean Unification Minister Expresses "Disappointment" Over Oil Suspension," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 15 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

26 November 2002
A South Korean Ministry of Unification official says that contacts between the LWR reactor project office in Seoul and its counterpart in Pyongyang have been cut off, and that training for North Korean engineers originally scheduled for this month are now in doubt. The training on the safe operation of reactors was to be held in South Korea.
—Lee Young-jong, "KEDO Nuclear Training in Doubt," Joongang Ilbo, 27 November 2002, <http://english.joins.com>.

26 November 2002
The radiation level for the Ulchin-3 nuclear power reactor's coolant increases to the first of three emergency levels.
—Park Ch'an Hui, "Ulchinwŏnjŏn 3 Hogi Paeksaekpisang Pallyŏng," Kukmin Ilbo, 26 November 2002, p. 26, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; Ham Hye Ri, "Ulchin 'Pangsasŏn Paeksaekpisang' Ch'ŏt Pallyŏng/Pangsanŭng Nuch'ulŭn Opsŏ," Taehan Maeil, 26 November 2002, p. 29, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

27 November 2002
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) announces that South Korea will participate in an international research project to develop the "Gen IV" (fourth generation nuclear reactor). The purpose of the Gen IV project is to develop a smaller and safer nuclear reactor that is less harmful to the environment. South Korean officials attended a GIF Forum (Gen IV International Forum) meeting 14-15 November in Washington with seven other countries to discuss the project. During the meeting, the member countries agreed to establish technical and steering committees in preparation for the research and development of the Gen IV reactor. According the MOST officials, South Korea will most likely focus its research on the sodium-cold fast reactor model that increases uranium combustion by more than 60 times and reduces the potential environmental damage from spent nuclear fuel.
—Yonhap News Agency, 27 November 2002, in "Seoul to Start Multinational Work on Nuclear Project Next Year," Asia Pulse, 27 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

28 November 2002
The Ulchin-3 nuclear power reactor leaks radioactive material while technicians conduct repair work on the cooling system after radiation level increased on 26 November. The leak exposes 109 employees to radiation, but the Ministry of Science and Technology claims the employees' exposure is minimal.
—Shin Dong Ho, "Ulchin Wŏnjŏn 3 Hogi 109 Myŏng P'ipok," Donga Ilbo, 6 December 2002, p. 30, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

3 December 2002
During a televised debate in South Korea, Grand National Party presidential candidate Lee Hoe Ch'ang says that North Korea has nuclear weapons. The statement is controversial as the rival Millennium Democratic Party (MDP) calls for Lee to provide proof of the accusation or retract it because the MDP says it creates anxiety for the South Korean people and increases tensions between the two Koreas.
—Yonhap News Agency, 4 December 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: N.K. Nuclear Program Becomes Key Issue of Presidential Campaign," FBIS Document ID: Kpp20021204000060; "FYI: ROK TVs Carry First Live TV Debate of Presidential Candidates on 3 Dec—MULTIMEDIA," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021203000083; Hankryoreh Shinmun, 4 December 2002, in "ROK Daily on Presidential Candidates' Stand on DPRK Nuclear Issues, SOFA Revision," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021204000050; "'Puk Haekpoyu' Pal'ŏn Nollan," Chosun Ilbo, 4 December 2002, <http://www.chosun.com>.

9 December 2002
Nuclear.ru reports that Russia and South Korea are working towards an agreement to conduct a joint research project on the treatment of irradiated nuclear fuel. According to the report, the Russian Federation State Science Center, the Atomic Reactors Scientific Research Institute, the Federal State Unitary Enterprise, and the Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) plan to carry out this research project over the next 10 years. South Korea and Russia have been conducting research and experiments with irradiated nuclear fuel for the past three years and so far have found that using fused salt in the preparation of irradiated nuclear fuel for long-term storage decreases its volume by a factor of four.
—Nuclear.ru, "Atomic Reactors Scientific Research Institute Develops Cooperation with Republic of Korea and China," 9 December 2002, in "Dimitrovgrad Atomic Reactor Institute Signs Cooperation Deals with ROK, PRC," FBIS Document ID: CEP20021213000093.

10 December 2002
The South Korean government works out the blueprints for the second 10-year basic energy plan until 2011. According to the blueprint, South Korea plans to enhance the energy sector's competitiveness, secure stable energy supplies, and reorganize energy prices. The plan also calls for the construction of nine nuclear power plants. In addition, to prepare for reunification, the government plans to provide coal and production facilities to North Korea, and to pursue various energy cooperation projects.
—Yonhap News Agency, 10 December 2002, in "Korean Govt Fixes Second 10-Year Basic Energy Plant," Asia Pulse, 10 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 December 2002
Roh Moo Hyun (No Mu Hyŏn; 盧武鉉), a former human rights lawyer, and candidate of the Millennium Democratic Party (새千年民主黨), wins South Korea's presidential election. [Note: Roh has said he would like continue engagement with North Korea, but cannot accept North Korea developing nuclear weapons.]
—Paul Shinn, "Former Human Rights Lawyer Roh Wins South Korean Presidential Election," Associated Press, 19 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Andrew Ward, "Victory for Roh Will Create Tension with US," Financial Times (London), 20 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Doug Struck, "Anti-U.S. Mood Lifts South Korean; President-Elect Wants Talks With North, Challenging Bush," Washington Post, 20 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "No Mu Hyŏn Taet'ongnyŏng Tangsŏn/Kŭ'nŭn Nuguin'ga," Chosun Ilbo, 20 December 2002, p. 6, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>; "NDFSK Spokesman on Results of Presidential Election," Korean Central News Agency, 23 December 2002, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.

22 December 2002
North Korean technicians begin removing seals and disabling monitoring cameras at the temporary storage facility for about 8,000 spent fuel rods in Yŏngbyŏn-kun.
—"Further Disruption of IAEA Safeguards implementation in the DPRK," WorldAtom Press Release PR 2002/23, 22 December 2002, <http://www.iaea.org/worldatom>; Richard W. Stevenson, "North Korea Begins to Reopen Plant for Processing Plutonium," New York Times, 24 December 2002, <http://www.nytimes.com>; Kim Yŏn Kŭk, "[Pukhan] P'yeyŏllyobong 8000 Kae Pong'indo Chegŏ," Chosun Ilbo, 23 December 2002, <http://www.chosun.com>.

23-24 December 2002
North Korean technicians remove most of the seals and disable monitoring cameras at the Radiochemistry Laboratory, which is a plutonium reprocessing plant, and at the fuel fabrication plant in Yŏngbyŏn-kun.
—"Continued Disruption of IAEA Safeguards Equipment in DPRK," WorldAtom Press Release PR 2002/24, 24 December 2002, <http://www.iaea.org/worldatom>; Richard W. Stevenson, "North Korea Begins to Reopen Plant for Processing Plutonium," New York Times, 24 December 2002, <http://www.nytimes.com>; Kim In Ku, "[Haekchaech'ŏri Kwajŏng] Pangsahwahakshilsŏ Plutonium Ch'uch'ul," Chosun Ilbo, 23 December 2002, <http://www.chosun.com>.

23 December 2002
The Yŏnggwang-6 nuclear power reactor begins commercial operation. Yŏnggwang-6 is a 1,000MW(e) pressurized water reactor.
— Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), "Han'guk Suryŏg'wŏnjaryŏk (Chu) Yŏnggwang'wŏnjaryŏk Ponbu," <http://www.khnp.co.kr/
korea_map/korea.html>; "Yŏnggwang'wŏnjŏn 6Hoki Sang'ŏb'unjŏn Kaeshi," Han'guk Suryŏg'wŏnjaryŏk (Chu) Yŏnggwang'wŏnjaryŏk Ponbu, 22 January 2003, <http://www.khnp.co.kr/youngkwg/index.jsp>.

26 December 2002
The Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company (KHNP) announces it has developed a technique to burn low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste and mix the residue with glass. According to KHNP this technology condenses radioactive waste up to 80% of its original size. KHNP plans to install facilities using this technology at the two nuclear power plants currently under construction in Ulchin. KHNP has been working on this technology since 1994 with the help of Hyundai and SGN, a French Engineering firm.
—Chosun Ilbo, 26 December 2002, in "ROK to Launch Nuclear Waste Vitrification Plant," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021225000044; Shin Dong Ho, "Suryŏkwŏnjaryŏk, Pangsasŏng P'yegimul 25% Ro Kamch'ukgisul Kaebal," Donga Ilbo, 30 December 2002, p. 15, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.or.kr>.

29 December 2002
The Ulchin-4 nuclear power reactor is temporarily shut down due to problems with the motor generator. This accident is classified as zero grade according to the standards set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The Ministry of Science and Technology plans to suspend operations at Ulchin-4 until a complete investigation is completed.
—Yonhap News Agency, 30 December 2002, in "ROK's Yonhap: Problems in Power Supply Cause Suspension of Uljin Nuclear Reactor," FBIS Document ID: KPP20021230000052.

31 December 2002
Park Ui Chun, North Korea's ambassador to Russia, suggests that North Korea will pull out of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. Speaking at a news conference in Moscow, Pak says, "North Korea is not currently able to meet its commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty—this is the fault of the United States." Park claims that North Korea can no longer fulfill its treaty obligations because the United States has stopped heavy fuel oil deliveries and continues to threaten North Korea with a preventive nuclear strike.
—James Brooke, "South Opposes Pressuring North Korea, Which Hint It Will Scrap Nuclear Pact," New York Times, 1 January 2003, p. A9, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; James Palmer and Anne Penketh, "North Korea to Pull Out of Pact Limiting Nuclear Weapons Because of US Threats," The Independent (London), 1 January 2003, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Song Tae Su, "Puk 'NPT Uimu Ihaengbulga'/Churŏbuktaesa Palkyŏ...IAEA Sach'aldan Puksŏ Ch'ŏlsu," Hankook Ilbo, 1 January 2003, p. 1, in KINDS, <http://www.kinds.co.kr>.