Thailand and South Korea have formalised an agreement to strengthen cooperation in nuclear research and development, with a focus on peaceful applications and clean energy transition.

The agreement was signed during a meeting between Thailand’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Supamas Isarabhakdi, and South Korean Ambassador to Thailand, Park Yongmin, on March 21.

According to the Thai minister, the new framework builds upon existing collaborations between both nations' research and energy agencies.

The deal is expected to advance joint work in the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), considered a promising alternative for clean electricity generation.

Ambassador Park reaffirmed South Korea's commitment to supporting Thailand’s nuclear development goals through technology sharing, knowledge transfer, and expert-level cooperation.

He outlined areas of joint interest, including nuclear safety, nuclear fusion, artificial intelligence, and space technology.

In the space sector, the agreement encompasses cooperation between the Thai Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).

The two agencies are collaborating on feasibility studies for establishing a spaceport in Thailand and developing satellite technologies.

South Korea also plans to deepen its collaboration through the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA), which will work with Thai institutions to further expand bilateral engagement in space-related initiatives.

The agreement forms part of both countries’ broader strategies to diversify energy sources, promote sustainable development, and foster innovation in advanced technology sectors.