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2w ago

Seoul and Washington to Pursue Stand-Alone Pact on Nuclear-Powered Subs as China Urges Prudence

Beijing warns the push could weaken nuclear nonproliferation rules.

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac briefs on his trip to the United States, Canada and Japan during a press briefing at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Dec. 24, 2025. (Yonhap)
National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac briefs on his trip to the United States, Canada and Japan during a press briefing at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Dec. 24, 2025. (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • South Korea’s national security adviser Wi Sung-lac said the two countries agreed to pursue a stand-alone cooperation agreement on nuclear-powered submarines, with working-level talks expected early next year.
  • Wi, returning from meetings in Washington with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Energy Secretary Chris Wright, described the discussions as practical and in-depth, according to Yonhap.
  • Seoul reaffirmed its nonproliferation commitments and said it plans to use low-enriched uranium below 20 percent for submarine fuel, with highly enriched uranium not under consideration.
  • Yonhap reported that Wi said the sides would seek a separate arrangement under Article 91 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act to authorize transfers of military nuclear materials, a pathway similar to AUKUS.
  • China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged South Korea to act with prudence, and Chinese analysts warned the prospective consultations on enrichment and reprocessing could erode the NPT and intensify regional competition.