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2w ago

U.S. Navy Secretary Phelan Commits to Enhanced Shipbuilding Cooperation with South Korea

Phelan's meetings with top South Korean officials and shipbuilders underscore efforts to integrate Korean expertise into U.S. naval industry revival.

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo (R) holds talks with U.S. Secretary of the Navy John Phelan during their meeting at the government complex in Seoul on April 30, 2025, in this photo released by Han's office. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
South Korean Ambassador to the United States Cho Hyun-dong (L) poses for a photo with Secretary of the U.S. Navy John Phelan during their meeting in Washington, D.C., on April 24, 2025, in this photo provided by the South Korean Embassy. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • U.S. Secretary of the Navy John Phelan visited HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan and Hanwha Ocean in Geoje to discuss naval shipbuilding and maintenance collaboration.
  • Phelan met with South Korean Acting President Han Duck-soo, agreeing to deepen cooperation in shipbuilding as a cornerstone of bilateral trade and defense ties.
  • The discussions emphasized leveraging South Korea’s shipbuilding expertise and capital to support the U.S. Navy's readiness and revive its shipbuilding industry.
  • Phelan highlighted Hanwha Ocean's acquisition of Philly Shipyard as a key example of integrating Korean investment and technology into America’s industrial base.
  • While no formal agreements were announced, both sides committed to pursuing active partnerships in naval construction and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).