South Korea, Japan, and US expand nuclear cooperation for energy and security

South Korea, Japan, and the United States are strengthening trilateral cooperation through nuclear technology, spanning both energy security and regional defense. The three nations have formalized an agreement focused on small modular reactors to address rising electricity demands, climate goals, and the need to reduce dependence on volatile fossil fuel supplies and reactor vendors from China and Russia.

In terms of maritime security, South Korea is considering the development of nuclear-powered submarines. While the primary mission is to counter North Korea’s growing nuclear and submarine capabilities, military experts suggest these vessels could play a broader role in the Indo-Pacific. Unlike diesel-electric submarines that must surface frequently to recharge, nuclear-powered vessels offer extended underwater endurance, allowing for continuous tracking of North Korean assets and the protection of vital sea lanes.