Abstract
Though a radiation accident in the nuclear power plants (NPP) is very rare, it can lead to a wide range of health problems to the public if happens. Thus, we need to be equipped with infrastructure and functional requirements for the radiation emergency. In this article, the recent development in Korea is introduced in terms of the preparedness for radiation emergency in NPPs. 'Law on the protection of nuclear facilities and the measures for radiological emergency' was established in 2004 to increase the radiation disaster preparedness in Korea, which is considered the most powerful tool in developing infrastructure. This law states necessary actions that need to be taken in case of radiation emergency. The representative medical infrastructure includes supports for hospitals in collaboration with RHRI, as well as coordination with other organizations. In terms of the functional aspect, RHRI has taken a leading role in increasing the radiation emergency preparedness of NPPs. Medical supports are comprised of radiation emergency equipments and special medical teams. Related activities include providing education/ training, culturing special radiation emergency medical teams, and operating 24 hours on call system etc. Also, RHRI conducts researchesrelated to the influence of an exposure to radiation on human health. It seems that emergency preparedness for the NPP accidents is well developed in Korea. However, feasible plans and methods in functionalrequirements need to be further developed for an effective intervention on radiation emergency.
