Archive · 11 Nov 2025
US-South Korea Deal Details Bogged Down Over Submarine and Trade
Imagine two friends who agreed to share toys and snacks.
They told everyone they had a deal!
But now, they haven't written down exactly who gets what or when.
One friend wants to build a cool new spaceship in their own backyard, but the other friend says it should be built at a different place and is worried about sharing the special instructions.
They also agreed on snacks, and that part is mostly ready, but they are waiting to announce everything together.
Because they are still figuring out the spaceship details, the big announcement is taking longer than expected.
Despite an announcement two weeks ago, the US and South Korea have not yet released a formal agreement on trade and security issues.
A major sticking point in the negotiations is South Korea's request for approval to build a nuclear-powered submarine.
While Washington has approved the use of nuclear fuel for the submarine, disagreements persist over its construction location and sensitive technology transfer.
The two sides claim to have reached an agreement on trade, involving a $350 billion investment package, but its formal signing and announcement are pending.
Delays in finalizing a joint factsheet are attributed to ongoing adjustments and feedback within U.S. government departments regarding the submarine issue.
- Who
- U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korea's Lee Jae Myung
- What
- Negotiations over trade and security issues, including the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine, have stalled and have yet to be officially documented.
- When
- Two weeks after the announced resolution of negotiations; details are still being finalized.
- Where
- Seoul, South Korea and Washington D.C.
- Why
- Disagreements over the specifics of the submarine construction, including location and technology transfer, and adjustments in U.S. departmental opinions are causing delays.
South Korea's Stance
U.S. Stance
Nuclear-Powered Submarine Construction
South Korea's Stance
South Korea requests Washington's approval to build a nuclear-powered submarine in South Korea.
U.S. Stance
Comments suggest the submarine was approved but would be built at a U.S. shipyard, raising questions about technology transfer.
Joint Factsheet Release
South Korea's Stance
South Korean officials express eagerness for the factsheet to be finalized and publicly announced for parliamentary explanation.
U.S. Stance
U.S. departments require time to adjust opinions and provide feedback, leading to delays in finalizing the factsheet.
- Trade Deal Value
- $350 billion investment package
- Submarine Fuel Approval
- Washington has approved Seoul's use of nuclear fuel for the submarine.
- Key Negotiators
- U.S. President Donald Trump and South Korea's Lee Jae Myung
- Announced Summit
- July
- Recent Meeting
- On the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific forum in South Korea last month
