An apparatus for safely controlling a control rod of a nuclear reactor of a nuclear power plant. The apparatus includes a first controller to output a signal to insert or withdraw the control rod. A mechanical portion performs insertion or withdrawal of the control rod in response to the outputted signal. The mechanical portion includes a latch engagement portion, a stop latch to restrain the control rod, a moving latch to move the control rod, and a lift coil to insert or withdraw the control rod. A detector can detect a position or a speed of the control rod. A brake is configured to stop the control rod by force. A second controller operates the brake in response to a brake signal from the detector. The second controller controls the brake independent of the first controller.