SEOUL — South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back released a roadmap for the development of nuclear-powered submarines in late May 2026. The Basic Plan for the Development of Nuclear-Powered Submarines was published during the inaugural meeting of the Future Defense Strategy Committee.

President Lee Jae Myung chairs the Future Defense Strategy Committee. This committee was established to aid South Korea in enhancing its defense capabilities.

The country plans to design a nuclear submarine reactor that will utilize low-enriched uranium. In contrast, U.S. nuclear submarines currently operate using highly enriched uranium. Naval nuclear reactors are engineered to meet specific acoustic, shock, and safety standards within confined spaces, which are designed for long-term underwater operation. The construction and operation of nuclear submarines require regulatory oversight, training, and qualification systems that differ from those used for civilian nuclear power.

The country currently operates 26 nuclear reactors, which supply approximately one-third of the country's electricity. The U.S. Navy has been engaged in the construction of nuclear submarines for over 70 years. From 2027 to 2031, around 46 percent of new U.S. shipbuilding expenditures are projected to be allocated to nuclear submarine construction.

The defense sector's revenue increased by about 75 percent between the mid-2010s and the mid-2020s. During the same period, the government military procurement spending saw a 26 percent increase. The majority of the country's arms exports are directed towards European countries, including Poland.

No independent assessment of South Korea’s claims was available.