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How will South Korean nuclear submarines alter underwater balance near first island chain?

South Korea’s plans to build nuclear-powered submarines by the mid-2030s will spur a US-allied network of advanced underwater capabilities near the first island chain, strengthening…

By Samantha Johnson / May 29, 2026
South Korea’s plans to build nuclear-powered submarines by the mid-2030s will spur a US-allied network of advanced underwater capabilities near the first island chain, strengthening deterrence against potential adversaries such as China and North Korea, analysts say.
The South Korean defence ministry this week announced its basic plans to build the country’s first nuclear-powered submarine, giving its first detailed outline of the programme since US President Donald Trump granted initial approval in October.

According to the plan, South Korea will launch the first of the vessels by the mid-2030s and deliver them to the Republic of Korea Navy by the late 2030s.

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The submarines, which are expected to be in use for at least 30 years, will be powered by low-enriched uranium instead of high-enriched uranium that could be used to build nuclear weapons.

South Korean president admits Seoul cannot stop US from moving military assets

However, in contrast to Trump’s approval, which required the South Korean submarines to be built at Hanwha Ocean’s shipyard in Philadelphia, the plan said South Korea would develop and build the submarines within its own territory using the country’s “world-class” nuclear energy and shipbuilding technology.

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