US ally plans to build first nuclear-powered submarine domestically by 2030s

South Korea has launched a national project to build its first domestically made nuclear-powered submarine, with the U.S. consulted on the plan.

The submarine will be conventionally armed, use low-enriched uranium, and be built entirely in South Korea under transparency commitments with the IAEA.

The first launch is targeted for the mid-2030s, with deployment expected in the late 2030s.

Seoul says the program will strengthen deterrence against North Korea and mark a major milestone for its defense industry.