South Korea is prioritizing the acquisition of its first nuclear-powered submarines by the mid-2030s. However, the project faces significant obstacles including delayed US consultations, non-proliferation concerns, and budget constraints.

South Korea’s drive to acquire its first nuclear-powered submarines is moving back up President Lee Jae Myung’s defence agenda, but analysts say delayed US consultations, non-proliferation concerns and budget pressures still stand in the way. Lee on Tuesday urged faster efforts to secure the submarines, describing them as core strategic assets for the country’s future defence capabilities. “We need to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence and drone technologies, while speeding up...