South Korea aims to develop its first nuclear-powered submarine by the late 2030s, following U.S. approval of its plans. A senior defense official indicated that construction could commence in the late 2020s if the necessary submarine fuel is secured from the U.S. Despite possessing advanced capabilities in conventional submarine design and construction, South Korea’s ability to build nuclear submarines remains untested, with concerns over its shipbuilding facilities. This development comes amid heightened tensions with North Korea, which has reaffirmed its status as a nuclear state. The situation underscores the evolving security dynamics in Northeast Asia, as South Korea seeks to bolster its maritime capabilities in response to regional threats, particularly from North Korea’s aggressive posturing and military alliances.