Nuclear engineering is a multidisciplinary field that deals with technologies providing various benefits to humanity by utilizing the enormous nuclear reaction energy and various fundamental particles that make up atoms. It focuses on advanced energy-based science and technology, such as nuclear power generation, which harnesses the enormous energy released by nuclear fission reactions to produce electricity, and nuclear fusion power generation, which has the potential to fundamentally solve the energy depletion problem. Furthermore, it involves the research and development of new technologies and systems that will create and lead current and future industries by using plasma, radiation, accelerators, and lasers with the latest scientific and technological advancements.

Nuclear energy is the most realistic large-scale energy supply solution for humanity to respond to climate change, making its increased role inevitable. This is also crucial for our country's energy security, as we import all the energy resources. Nuclear energy is a future key energy source that provides eco-friendly energy necessary for transitioning to a hydrogen economy and a digital society, including low-cost hydrogen production, power supply for data centers, safe management of spent nuclear fuel, and achieving a nuclear circular economy. Fusion energy is gaining attention as the ultimate future energy source to solve humanity's energy problems. Along with nuclear energy applications, advanced scientific technologies such as plasma, neutrons, radiation, and laser beams provide essential technologies for future industries and environmental industries related to information, life, and micro technologies (IT, BT, NT) that have emerged in the 21st century. Plasma application technology is a key factor in overcoming technological limits in new materials and environmental industries. Radiation applications also play a crucial role in waste treatment, new material development, precision measurement technology, and agricultural, industrial, and medical biosciences, contributing to improving the quality of life in an environmentally friendly manner.

The Department of Nuclear Engineering at Seoul National University focuses on advanced energy engineering technologies and the research and development of plasma and radiation, which are gaining attention with the latest scientific advancements of the 21st century. It serves as a cradle for engineers who will lead in creating national wealth and improving the quality of life for mankind. By enhancing research capabilities in core nuclear engineering technologies and challenging unexplored scientific and technological fields, the department strives to achieve creative and world-class research and development, thereby fostering international competitiveness and nurturing talents that will lead the world. To cultivate nuclear engineering leaders in various fields, the department emphasizes developing a broad foundation of basic academic knowledge and engineering problem-solving skills. The graduate program provides in-depth education and research divided into three major areas: nuclear energy systems engineering, fusion and plasma engineering, and radiation and subatomic particle engineering.

NOTE: The university may have additional program-specific eligibility requirements. It is recommended to verify these on the official university website