South Korea plans to launch its first domestically built nuclear-powered attack submarine by the mid-2030s [1].
This strategic shift represents a significant escalation in the Republic of Korea Navy's capabilities. The move is designed to counter the growing submarine-launched capabilities of North Korea and address broader regional security tensions [2, 4].
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said the plan on Tuesday, outlining a timeline for the vessel to enter service in the mid-2030s [1, 3]. The development of these submarines will be managed domestically in Seoul to ensure a more robust maritime defense posture [4].
The program follows a pivotal diplomatic shift in the partnership between Seoul and Washington. The U.S. agreed to support the South Korean submarine program in late 2025 [1]. This agreement provides the necessary framework for South Korea to pursue nuclear propulsion technology while maintaining its security alliance with the U.S. [4].
Nuclear-powered submarines offer a distinct advantage over conventional diesel-electric vessels. They can remain submerged for much longer periods and travel at higher speeds without needing to surface for oxygen. This capability is essential for long-term surveillance, and deterrence against North Korean naval assets [2, 4].
The Republic of Korea Navy will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the fleet once the first vessel is commissioned [4]. The government has not yet released the specific number of vessels it intends to build under this new initiative, but the mid-2030s target remains the primary milestone for the first unit [1, 3].
“South Korea plans to launch its first domestically built nuclear-powered attack submarine by the mid-2030s.”
The transition to nuclear propulsion marks a fundamental change in South Korea's naval strategy. By moving away from conventional submarines, Seoul is prioritizing endurance and stealth to neutralize North Korea's asymmetric naval threats. The explicit backing from the U.S. suggests a coordinated effort to stabilize the Indo-Pacific region through enhanced deterrents.
