Over the past few years, nuclear energy issues have increasingly shifted from scientific or economic considerations to political matters. While this trend is observed in other developed countries as well, South Korea has experienced nationwide repercussions due to unilateral policies aimed at phasing out nuclear power. There has been a notable lack of professionals capable of effectively communicating and leading nuclear discussions. If engineers or policy makers with engineering backgrounds had actively communicated with society, many losses could have been prevented.

The issue of establishing a facility for spent nuclear fuel management cannot be resolved without social understanding and consensus. Recognizing this, Seoul National University established the "Integrated Major in Sustainable High-Level Radioactive Waste Management" to develop safe and socially acceptable solutions for managing spent nuclear fuel. Professors from diverse academic backgrounds collaborate to train interdisciplinary experts capable of scientifically addressing and resolving societal issues.