SEOUL, South Korea — Tensions are rising in the region as North and South Korea ramp up their development of nuclear-powered submarines. This escalation comes in response to evolving security strategies from the United States. North Korea’s state media recently unveiled an image of what it claims is an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine. This marks the first time the country has disclosed the size and the apparently completed hull of the submarine since commencing its pursuit of nuclear submarines in 2021.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized that this new vessel is intended to bolster the country’s defense against what he described as “the negative security situation that has come as present reality.” He criticized South Korea’s ambition to develop its own nuclear submarines, labeling it an “offensive act” that necessitates a strong counter-response.
South Korea’s Nuclear Ambitions
In response to North Korea’s advancements, South Korea has accelerated its own nuclear submarine program following President Donald Trump‘s approval in October. A newly formed task force in Seoul aims to establish a framework for acquiring military-use nuclear fuel from the United States. South Korea’s national security adviser, Wi Sung-lac, has indicated that the nation is committed to progressing its submarine capabilities, which have long been pursued to counter North Korea’s expanding nuclear threats.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back noted that conventional, diesel-powered submarines are insufficient compared to the nuclear vessels being developed by North Korea, particularly in terms of endurance and speed. As South Korea strengthens its military capabilities, the U.S. anticipates that South Korean nuclear submarines will also address broader regional security concerns, particularly regarding China.
Regional Security Dynamics
During a visit to Seoul in November, Admiral Daryl Caudle, chief of naval operations of the U.S. Navy, articulated that future South Korean submarines may play a significant role against perceived threats from China, which he identified as a “pacing threat.” South Korean President Lee Jae Myung hinted at this expectation during discussions with Trump, acknowledging that the limited range of diesel submarines curtails operational capabilities against both North Korean and Chinese naval forces.
Despite the urgent need for enhanced defense mechanisms, South Korea has been careful not to provoke military confrontation with China, its largest trading partner. Following President Lee’s comments, his office clarified that they did not imply a direct threat to any specific nation, reflecting a cautious public sentiment. A recent survey revealed that a majority of South Koreans prefer neutrality in the event of a conflict between the U.S. and China.
The potential development of nuclear submarines is not limited to South Korea. Japan has also expressed a willingness to explore similar capabilities amid growing concerns about China’s expanding influence. Kim Heungkyu, a political scientist and director at the China Policy Institute at Ajou University, noted that as the U.S. shifts its defense focus, allies in the region like South Korea are increasingly skeptical about America’s commitment to their security.
A poll conducted by the private think tank Asan Institute in March found that fewer than half of South Koreans believe the U.S. would respond with nuclear force if North Korea launched an attack. In light of this uncertainty, a significant portion of the South Korean populace supports the idea of nuclear armament, even if it results in international sanctions or the withdrawal of U.S. troops.
As discussions continue regarding access to uranium enrichment and reprocessing of spent fuel with the U.S., the South Korean government has denied any intentions of pursuing nuclear weapons. Nevertheless, experts suggest that the current geopolitical climate, coupled with nuclear submarine capabilities, positions South Korea for a potential shift towards nuclear armament.
As the situation evolves, the development of nuclear submarines represents a critical juncture in the security strategies of both North and South Korea, reflecting broader dynamics in regional power and international relations.
