According to Yonhap News, on October 30 local time, South Korean Foreign Minister Choe Young-jin said at a press conference that South Korea and the United States will conduct working-level consultations on the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine in South Korea, and accelerate the relevant process.
At the press conference, Choe said, "President Trump previously expressed understanding of our needs, saying that further research was needed within the U.S., but unexpectedly expressed support." He added, "To promote this matter, we will conduct working-level consultations with the United States to accelerate progress."
Choe said that North Korea recently announced its intention to build a nuclear-powered submarine. In addition, there are various factors forcing South Korea to enhance its defense capabilities. Choe also claimed, "South Korea has no intention of developing its own nuclear weapons." He stated, "South Korea enjoys the extended deterrence of the United States, so there is absolutely no need to develop its own nuclear weapons."
Additionally, when asked whether the South Korean government had contacted North Korea to facilitate inter-Korean dialogue, Choe said that the South Korean government had not contacted North Korea.
On October 30, South Korean Foreign Minister Choe Young-jin (left) attended a press conference. Photo from Yonhap News.
Earlier, President Trump discussed the development of a nuclear-powered submarine with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and agreed to subsequent consultations on the matter. Trump also posted on social media that he had approved the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine for South Korea, and the construction work will be carried out by Hanwha Ocean Shipbuilding.
Notably, during the meeting between the leaders of South Korea and the United States, a trade agreement was also reached. South Korea will provide $35 billion to the United States for investment projects owned and controlled by the U.S., of which $1.5 billion will be specifically allocated for the South Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation. Additionally, South Korea will purchase $1 billion worth of liquefied natural gas or other energy products and commit to reinvesting a large amount of capital.
Nuclear-powered submarines are mainly used for military purposes, featuring strong underwater stealth and long-range endurance, and can carry out various combat missions. Analysts pointed out that South Korea's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines is mainly due to the considerations of enhancing its long-range combat capabilities and reducing external dependence.
At the regular press conference on October 30, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Gao Feng expressed that China has noted the relevant situation and hopes that both South Korea and the United States will genuinely fulfill their nuclear non-proliferation obligations, doing things that promote regional peace and stability, rather than the opposite. "We must emphasize that China adheres to the path of peaceful development, implements a defensive national defense policy and a friendly foreign policy towards neighboring countries, and has always been a pillar of maintaining regional peace and security."
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