South Korea and U.S. Strengthen Defense Ties Amid Nuclear Submarine Discussions

On November 4, 2025, South Korea and the United States commenced their 57th Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) in Seoul, co-chaired by South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This meeting marks their first collaboration since both took office earlier in the year. The agenda includes discussions on modernizing the long-standing alliance, particularly focusing on the strategic flexibility of U.S. forces in South Korea and Seoul's ambition to regain wartime operational control (OPCON) from Washington by 2030.

Yonhap News AgencySouth Korea and the U.S. are reportedly discussing where to build nuclear-powered submarines and who. .South Korea and U.S. to Cooperate on Nuclear Submarines, Accelerate OPCON Transfer, Agree on 3.5% Defense Spending Increase

A significant topic of discussion is South Korea's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines. Following a summit between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump, Trump confirmed that the U.S. would support South Korea's submarine ambitions, suggesting construction at the Philadelphia shipyard operated by Hanwha Ocean. South Korean officials anticipate launching their first nuclear submarine by the late 2030s, contingent upon securing nuclear fuel supplies through negotiations with the U.S.

Seoul says nuclear submarine possible within 15 yearsSouth Korea and the U.S. are reportedly discussing where to build nuclear-powered submarines and who. .Xi-Lee Summit Centers on Repairing Diplomatic Ties

The SCM occurs against a backdrop of increasing military alignment between North Korea and Russia, with North Korea showcasing its advancements in nuclear capabilities. The South Korean defense ministry emphasized the need for policy coordination regarding North Korea, combined defense posture, and extended deterrence. Hegseth praised South Korea's commitment to enhancing its defense responsibilities, while Ahn expressed determination to ensure the successful transfer of OPCON.

Yonhap News AgencySouth Korea and U.S. to Cooperate on Nuclear Submarines, Accelerate OPCON Transfer, Agree on 3.5% Defense Spending IncreaseSouth Korea and the U.S. are reportedly discussing where to build nuclear-powered submarines and who. .

Despite the strategic discussions, there are dissenting voices regarding the nuclear submarine initiative. Protesters gathered near the Defense Ministry in Seoul, urging the U.S. not to assist South Korea in acquiring nuclear submarines. Critics argue that this move could escalate regional tensions and complicate security dynamics in Northeast Asia.

Seoul says nuclear submarine possible within 15 years

In a joint statement, Hegseth reaffirmed U.S. support for South Korea's nuclear submarine plans, highlighting the country's advanced shipbuilding technology. Ahn reiterated South Korea's commitment to denuclearization, stating, "We have no plans whatsoever to possess nuclear weapons," and emphasized the establishment of a South Korea-U.S. Combined Nuclear and Conventional Integration system.

South Korea and U.S. to Cooperate on Nuclear Submarines, Accelerate OPCON Transfer, Agree on 3.5% Defense Spending IncreaseSeoul says nuclear submarine possible within 15 yearsYonhap News AgencySouth Korea and the U.S. are reportedly discussing where to build nuclear-powered submarines and who. .

There are discrepancies regarding the specifics of the submarine construction. While Trump indicated that submarines would be built in the U.S., South Korean officials have expressed a desire for domestic production capabilities. Experts have raised concerns about the adequacy of the Philadelphia shipyard for such advanced projects, suggesting that significant investment would be required to establish the necessary facilities.

Seoul says nuclear submarine possible within 15 years

The SCM concluded with plans to form an interagency task force to address the challenges of designing and constructing nuclear submarines, including the development of small nuclear reactors and securing enriched uranium. Both nations aim to expedite the OPCON transfer process, with discussions expected to continue in the coming months as they navigate the complexities of defense cooperation and regional security.

South Korea and U.S. to Cooperate on Nuclear Submarines, Accelerate OPCON Transfer, Agree on 3.5% Defense Spending Increase