KEMA advances review of 6 national power system standards
The Korean Electrical Manufacturers Association (KEMA) reviewed six proposed national standard revisions and enactments on September 28, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance interoperability and cybersecurity for Korea's rapidly digitalizing power grid infrastructure.
Our take
How is Korea strengthening digital grid security and interoperability?
KEMA's review of six national standards, aligned with IEC/TC57, directly addresses the critical need for enhanced interoperability and communication security within Korea's increasingly digital and decentralized power grid.
The rapid expansion of renewable energy and grid digitalization necessitates robust standards for seamless data exchange between diverse equipment (interoperability) and strong defenses against cyber threats (communication security). By adopting international frameworks like IEC 61850 and IEC 62351, Korea aims to ensure stable grid operation and foster the growth of intelligent power systems.
What the source says
- Three new national standards proposed for enactment include KS C IEC TS 61850-1-2 (IEC 61850 extended guidelines), KS C IEC 61850-6-3 (XML-based file validation rules), and KS C IEC TR 61850-7-500 (logical node concepts and usage for power utility automation).
- Three existing national standards proposed for full revision to align with the latest international technical standards are KS C IEC 60870-6-503, KS C IEC 61850-6, and KS C IEC 62351-8.
- Korean Electrical Manufacturers Association official An official from the Korean Electrical Manufacturers Association emphasized that as grid digitalization advances, close interconnection between facilities and the establishment of a standardized security system are essential.
- KEMA plans to supplement the standard proposals based on feedback from the expert committee and then proceed with subsequent administrative procedures, including public notice and technical review, in cooperation with the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards.
- The revision of IEC 62351-8, which addresses role-based access control, is expected to contribute to strengthening the cyber safety of intelligent power grids.
- IEC/TC57 is a key technical committee that establishes international standards for power industry digital transformation, covering substation automation, energy management systems (EMS), and cybersecurity.
For investors — Investors and operators in Korean DER can anticipate a more secure and standardized operational environment, potentially lowering integration costs and mitigating risks from proprietary systems or cyber vulnerabilities.
Watch: Ongoing administrative procedures by KEMA and KATS for the enactment and revision of national power system standards.
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