South Korea has shut down two nuclear reactors after it was revealed that some parts used had not been properly vetted, an official says.
Knowledge Economy Minister Hong Suk-woo said these were “non-core” parts and were not a safety threat.
They included fuses, cooling fans and power switches that did not have the required nuclear industry certificates.
The shut down means there could be “unprecedented” power shortages in the next few months, Mr Hong said.
Almost all the parts were used at the Yeonggwang Nuclear Power Plant, where the two reactors were shut down.
“Comprehensive safety check-ups are necessary at these two reactors where the uncertified parts were used extensively,” the minister said.
“It’s inevitable that we will experience unprecedented power shortage during the coming winter with the two reactors shut.”
