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U.S. Backs Fuel for South Korean Nuclear Sub as Seoul Pushes to Build at Home

Key approvals remain unresolved, including changes to nuclear rules, the shipyard choice, export controls, safeguards.

U.S. President Donald Trump meets with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders' summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, October 29, 2025. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein

Overview

  • Seoul says Washington has approved its use of U.S.-supplied enriched uranium to fuel a nuclear-powered submarine.
  • South Korea intends to construct the boat domestically, though the White House points back to President Trump’s statement that it would be built in Philadelphia.
  • Top South Korean officials say Hanwha’s Philadelphia yard currently lacks the capability to build a nuclear-powered submarine.
  • Officials describe ongoing U.S.–ROK coordination to navigate the 2015 atomic agreement and export-control limits, with reporting indicating any deal would cover fuel rather than reactor technology.
  • Both governments are finalizing a joint fact sheet tied to a $350 billion investment–tariff package, as analysts warn China could respond with economic pressure.