Archive · 5 Dec 2025
South Korea's Nuclear Submarine Plans Spark Regional Concerns
South Korea wants to build nuclear-powered submarines to better protect itself from North Korea's threats.
The U.S. has recently agreed to help with this plan, which could take about 10 years.
This makes other countries in the region, like Japan and China, worried.
North Korea says it's also working on nuclear submarines, and there are concerns this could start an underwater arms race.
South Korea says its submarines will be for defense only and won't carry nuclear weapons.
The U.S. supports this plan to help with regional security and to counter China's growing military influence.
South Korea seeks nuclear-powered submarines to counter North Korea's undersea threats, with U.S. endorsement.
The move could trigger an underwater arms race, with Japan considering similar capabilities.
North Korea claims to be developing nuclear submarines, possibly with Russian assistance.
South Korea assures China its submarines are for defense and to deter North Korea.
South Korea estimates it could build its first nuclear submarine within 10 years.
- Who
- South Korea, North Korea, U.S., Japan, China
- What
- South Korea's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines
- When
- Ongoing, with recent U.S. endorsement
- Where
- Asia, particularly the Korean Peninsula and surrounding regions
- Why
- To counter North Korea's undersea threats and enhance regional security
- Countries with Nuclear Submarines
- U.S., Russia, China, France, India, UK
- South Korea's Timeline
- Estimated 10 years to build first submarine
- U.S. Support
- Agreed to cooperate on sourcing nuclear fuel
- North Korea's Claims
- Developing nuclear-powered submarines, possibly with Russian assistance
- Japan's Stance
- Considering nuclear submarines, but no current studies