South Korea’s Nuclear Submarine Ambitions Face Congressional Hurdles

South Korea's initiative to develop nuclear-powered submarines is encountering significant obstacles due to congressional resistance and deteriorating trust with Washington. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration recently approved the basic strategy for the Jangbogo-N project, aiming to acquire nuclear-powered submarines. The military plans to start designing these vessels next year, with an initial budget of 96.6 billion won ($68 million). Deployment is anticipated in the late 2030s or later, with the construction of three 8,000-ton submarines being considered. According to Yonhap News Agency, the feasibility of proceeding with these plans is uncertain due to strained relations between South Korea and the United States over issues such as wartime operational control. Despite a security agreement reached last year reflecting mutual trust, confidence between the allies has weakened, particularly after Democrats gained majorities in Congress, who are traditionally more cautious about nuclear proliferation. The transfer of nuclear fuel for military purposes would necessitate revising the existing South Korea-U.S. nuclear cooperation agreement or establishing a new accord, which would require congressional approval. Currently, Australia is the only country to receive nuclear-powered submarine technology from Washington under the Aukus security partnership with Britain. In January, four Democratic senators expressed concerns to President Donald Trump, warning that providing South Korea with nuclear capabilities could undermine Washington's nonproliferation policy. Meanwhile, North Korea is advancing its naval capabilities, with leader Kim Jong-un pledging to enhance the country's naval forces by next May, potentially unveiling a nuclear-powered submarine. For South Korea, acquiring nuclear-powered submarines would bolster its ability to counter North Korea's threats, complementing the U.S. extended deterrence commitment. The government must expedite negotiations with the Trump administration to implement last year's security agreement and engage Congress to demonstrate that South Korean submarines would also benefit American security interests. However, restoring trust in the South Korea-U.S. alliance is crucial before focusing on procurement schedules and diplomatic assurances.