Nuclear control room training in Korea: A great foundation for Dukovany, says FEL student

What is it like to train in a nuclear control room simulator and study right next to an operating power plant? Jakub Šimůnek from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering swapped Pilsen for South Korea for a semester. At the KINGS university, he gained unique practical experience and built connections.

Jakub Šimůnek is pursuing a master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering Management at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (FEL) UWB. He combined his passion for nuclear energy and Asian culture into a unique study internship at KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS) in South Korea. In this interview, he describes not only the academic challenges but also how stepping out of his comfort zone on the other side of the world has advanced his professional and personal life.

Jakub, why South Korea and KINGS in particular?
For me, it was the perfect fusion of my biggest passions—nuclear engineering and my fascination with Asia. When the opportunity arose to study at KINGS, I didn’t hesitate for a second. Professionally, it was a tremendous opportunity because South Korea is a global leader in nuclear energy. What appealed to me most was the school's promise to integrate theory and practice closely. The opportunity to study right next to a nuclear power plant and gain access to technologies we do not have at our home university was highly attractive. I wanted to see firsthand how a successful nuclear program works in a country that actively exports its reactors worldwide.

How demanding were the preparations and the paperwork before you left?
The process was quite long-drawn-out and heavy on paperwork, taking about six months in total. I had to go through approval processes at both our faculty and the Korean side. KINGS selects its students very carefully, so I had to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and language certificates. Thankfully, the International Office at UWB helped me immensely with the paperwork; without their support, it would have been much more complicated.

What was campus life like, and how did it compare to the world outside?
The KINGS campus is self-contained, beautifully equipped, and buzzing with a vibrant international vibe. The university serves as a prestigious hub for people from all over the world, often from partner countries that are just starting to plan their own nuclear energy programs. The absolute highlight for me was the daily interaction and networking with international classmates. In this environment, you quickly learn to communicate within a multicultural team, lose any inhibitions about speaking English, and make friends for life.

However, as soon as you step outside, it’s a completely different world. You encounter a culture built on immense respect, strict hierarchy, and an incredible work ethic. Getting by in daily life outside the university was sometimes a puzzle, as you cannot always rely on English in regular stores. Overall, though, living in a country with such a different culture forced me to become independent and step out of my comfort zone.

The school promised a close connection between theory and practice. How did that work in reality?
Professionally, KINGS offered an incredible practical extension to my studies at FEL. The most memorable experience was definitely the simulator of a real nuclear power plant control room, which we could try out firsthand. Seeing key components in action and learning in the immediate vicinity of an operating reactor gave me tremendous insight. It really grounded me professionally.

Do you see this experience as beneficial for your future career in the Czech Republic?
Without a doubt. With Korea set to build the new nuclear units at Dukovany, this internship is a great way to get ahead. During my stay, I met several Korean engineers. Building personal and professional connections with them, which I will likely draw upon in the future in the Czech Republic during the construction of the new units, is absolutely key.

What message would you share with other UWB students who are considering studying in Asia but are still hesitant?
Stop looking for reasons why it won't work and go. While Asia, due to its differences, might not be for everyone, it is an absolutely unique life experience. Of course, you’ll face obstacles and uncomfortable situations, but it’s only when you are abroad that you discover just how much you can handle on your own.

The International Office at UWB offers a wide range of study-abroad and internship opportunities. Students can take advantage of the popular Erasmus+ program or use the INTER program for destinations outside Europe. Complete information, application deadlines, and contact details are available on the International Office website.