A case study of site selection processes for high level radioactive waste (HLW) deep geological disposal in foreign countries

To secure a site for constructing deep geological disposal facilities for High Level Radioactive Waste (HLW), it is important to first establish a phased site development process that aligns with the requirements and criteria outlined in the relevant legal framework. This paper reviews the site development process proposed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and analyzes the legal structures and phased site development procedures in leading nations for HLW disposal: Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, France, Germany, and Japan. Furthermore, based on the analysis, the distinct legal standards and site selection processes for each country have been examined. Upon reviewing international case studies, it is evident that each nation has developed and implemented laws, methods, and technologies tailored to their specific circumstances, geological conditions, and requirements. The successful cases of Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, and France emphasize the critical importance of effective communication with local communities and residents. Transparency in the process ensures a comprehensive understanding of disposal safety, addressing the challenges of community acceptance in the final site selection. Insights from comparing the site selection cases in these leading countries are anticipated to provide invaluable data and information for devising an optimized site development system tailored to Korea's conditions and realities.