On November 1, 2024, the “Korean-Bulgarian Energy Forum” took place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Sofia — a significant event with long-term potential for the development of Bulgaria’s energy sector. It was organized by the Atlantic Club of Bulgaria, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The forum brought together representatives from institutions, business, academia, and international experts to discuss the future of energy partnership between the two countries, with a focus on opportunities in nuclear energy, renewable sources, and technology transfer.
The official opening was marked by the presence of key figures, including Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov, President of the Atlantic Club Dr. Solomon Passy, Member of Parliament Delyan Dobrev, the Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bulgaria, and the Director of KOTRA.
The forum’s main theme was the potential for closer cooperation between Bulgaria and South Korea in the field of nuclear energy, with particular emphasis on the possible involvement of Korean companies in the construction of new nuclear facilities in Bulgaria. In his speech, Minister Malinov emphasized that the country needs a stable and long-term energy strategy in which nuclear power plays a key role. He noted that the Republic of Korea possesses established technologies and expertise that Bulgaria could benefit from in the modernization and development of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant.
Atlantic Club President Solomon Passy highlighted the geopolitical dimension of energy cooperation, stressing the need for energy security in the Southeast European region. He pointed out that a partnership with a country like South Korea — an OECD member and innovation leader — could enhance the resilience and competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy.
Many of the speeches addressed the need for investment in new technologies, digitization of the energy infrastructure, and the green transition. Korean institutions and companies expressed readiness to share their experience in small modular reactors (SMRs), energy grid management systems, and sustainable energy solutions. One of the key goals of the forum was not only to discuss the political and technological dimensions of cooperation but also to establish real business connections and a foundation for future joint projects.
The event featured lively discussions and panel talks in which participants exchanged ideas on the future development of Bulgarian-Korean relations.
The forum fits within the broader context of Bulgaria’s growing focus on energy independence and the need for reliable international partners in this strategic sector. Korean companies, for their part, are seeking new markets and stable partnerships in Europe, with Bulgaria emerging as a logical starting point for expanding their regional presence.
The Korean-Bulgarian Energy Forum was not only a demonstration of diplomatic and economic rapprochement but also an important step toward concrete outcomes — investments, technology transfer, and capacity building. In conclusion, the forum clearly showed that when political will, business interests, and technological vision align, real conditions are created for a long-term and sustainable partnership.
