As reported by Hankyoreh on July 18, 2025, Cho Hyun, nominee for South Korea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated during a confirmation hearing that he would seek to amend the U.S.–ROK 123 Agreement to allow for the development or acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. The 123 Agreement, which governs peaceful nuclear cooperation between South Korea and the United States, currently prohibits the enrichment and reprocessing of nuclear fuel for military applications. Read full defense news at this link...
 |
| Cho Hyun’s proposal opens a formal channel for South Korea to pursue nuclear-powered submarines, potentially enabling longer-range, survivable undersea deterrence and reducing reliance on US naval forces. (Picture source: Army Recognition) |