IAEA chief says Seoul's nuclear submarine project would require 'ironclad guarantees'

Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on Wednesday signaled the start of formal discussions with Seoul over its nuclear-powered submarine ambitions.

2026-04-15

'Nuclear' or 'atomic'? Gov't terminology on submarines baffles public.

The government has changed its terminology for nuclear submarines to nuclear-powered submarines, then back to nuclear submarines, causing confusion among the public about the government's stance on the much-debated technology.

2025-11-13

Joint fact sheet on recent Korea-U.S. summit allegedly delayed due to nuclear submarine dispute

The release of a joint fact sheet from the recent Korea-U.S. summit appears to be delayed due to disagreement over where Korea's nuclear-powered submarine should be built — domestically, or at a U.S. shipyard.

2025-11-09

North Korean leader inspects nuclear-powered submarine project

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a project to build a nuclear-powered submarine, warning that his country's maritime defense capability will be "fully" projected "in any necessary waters without limitation."

2025-03-09

Lawmaker says Korea should pursue nuclear submarine after Trump pulls aid from Ukraine

Korean politicians urge enhanced defense capabilities and a reevaluation of U.S. security dependence after Trump's criticisms, proposing a nuclear-powered submarine program to strengthen national security.

2025-03-07

North pillories nuclear sub idea for South

One of North Korea’s propaganda outlets criticized South Korea for reports that it wants to acquire nuclear fuel from the United States for a nuclear-powered submarine.

2020-10-18