South Korea is setting its sights on launching its first nuclear-powered submarine by the late 2030s, according to statements made by a senior official from the defense ministry during a cabinet meeting. This announcement comes shortly after the United States, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, approved Seoul’s plans for the ambitious project.
During a recent regional summit in South Korea, Trump expressed his support for the initiative, noting that the country will be constructing its nuclear-powered submarine with assistance from U.S. technology. He highlighted that the construction would take place in the Philadelphia shipyards, which have been under the management of South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean since last year. However, the shipyard reportedly lacks the necessary facilities for building nuclear submarines.
The U.S. nuclear submarine technology is recognized as highly classified, making this development particularly significant. Nuclear-powered submarines offer substantial advantages over conventional diesel-powered vessels, most notably the ability to remain submerged for extended periods without the need to surface regularly for battery recharging.
Senior defense ministry official Won Chong-dae indicated that South Korea has the potential to develop its nuclear-powered submarine utilizing its own technological capabilities. He conveyed optimism about the timeline, stating that if the necessary submarine fuel can be secured through discussions with the U.S., the country could enter the construction phase in the late 2020s, aiming to launch the lead vessel between the mid and late 2030s.
In related discussions, a South Korean presidential aide highlighted that the nation had sought and received authorization from Washington for the raw materials necessary for the submarine’s development.
Despite optimistic projections for South Korea’s defense initiatives, tensions remain high with North Korea, which has solidified its position as a nuclear state since the collapse of the summit with Trump in 2019. North Korea has bolstered its international alliances, notably with Russia, and has expressed disdain for South Korea’s hopes of denuclearization, labeling them as unrealistic.
On the topic of denuclearization, South Korea’s Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back reiterated the nation’s steadfast commitment to the goal while firmly ruling out the prospect of South Korea acquiring nuclear arms. This commitment underscores the delicate balance of security and diplomacy in the region as South Korea seeks to enhance its defense capabilities amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
