HALEU 시대의 핵비확산과 에너지 안보: 한국의 우라늄 농축 전략

As global electricity demand is projected to more than double by 2050, the accelerating development of advanced reactors such as SMRs and MMRs is driving a surge in HALEU demand. However, uranium enrichment technology poses inherent proliferation risks due to its potential diversion to nuclear weapons production, making it one of the most sensitive areas under the international nuclear non-proliferation regime. South Korea faces complex strategic challenges in balancing energy security with non-proliferation obligations, as it relies entirely on imported nuclear fuel and operates under enrichment restrictions imposed by the ROK-U.S. nuclear cooperation agreement (123 Agreement). This paper analyzes the technical characteristics and proliferation vulnerabilities of uranium enrichment technologies, and examines the structural instability of the international enrichment market characterized by heavy dependence on Russia and the vulnerabilities in the HALEU supply chain. Based on this analysis, the paper proposes a multilayered strategy for South Korea: securing supply stability through participation in multilateral HALEU fuel banks and long-term advance purchase contracts; introducing proliferation-resistant chemical enrichment technologies such as the redox ion-exchange method and strengthening related infrastructure investment; and enhancing institutional controls through close international cooperation with the IAEA and key nations. This balanced approach will enable South Korea to maintain its position as a model non-proliferation state while securing competitiveness in the next-generation nuclear industry.