Crisis Management for a Conflict with North Korea

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Expert calls South Korea's nuclear-powered sub acquisition 'possible' but 'long road'

Joongang Ilbo | English | News | Nov. 14, 2025 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

South Korea's efforts to acquire nuclear-powered submarines are deemed "possible" but face significant challenges, according to James Kim, director of the Korea Program at the Stimson Center. These challenges include U.S. licensing and certification hurdles, particularly from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and local authorities in Philadelphia, where the submarines are planned to be constructed. The presence of nuclear materials near a major metropolitan area adds complexity to the approval process.

Additional obstacles involve South Korea's need to develop supply chains and recruit engineers experienced in nuclear submarine construction, an area new to its shipbuilding industry. Geopolitical issues also come into play, especially concerns over nuclear proliferation and reactions from China, as well as involvement from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The push for nuclear-powered submarines aligns with South Korea's long-standing goal to enhance its independent military capabilities amid growing nuclear threats from North Korea. This move followed former U.S. President Donald Trump's approval to build the submarine at a U.S. shipyard, although South Korea prefers domestic construction. The situation remains complex due to current agreements limiting nuclear energy cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea to peaceful uses, not military applications.

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