USA approves South Korea: nuclear submarines against North Korea in sight!

USA approves South Korea: nuclear submarines against North Korea in sight!

The security situation in East Asia continues to cause concern. On October 30, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced through his Truth Social platform that the United States was authorizing South Korea to build nuclear-powered submarines. This represents a significant step, particularly given the tensions in the region. Production of the new submarines will take place in Philadelphia, USA.

Trump highlighted the military partnership between the US and South Korea, calling it "stronger than ever." This cooperation is seen as a strategic counterweight against China's influence in the region. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung had asked for fuel for the new nuclear-powered submarines during a meeting with Trump, a request to which Trump agreed in principle but called for further negotiations. However, providing such fuel is politically sensitive because it could require highly enriched uranium.

Escalation of tensions with North Korea

In the background of these developments is the great concern of North Korea, which strongly condemned the arrival of American nuclear submarines in South Korea. The North Korean Defense Ministry expressed grave concern about this military move and warned of further “provocations” by the US. It is feared that this situation could lead to an “actual armed confrontation” as North Korea feels threatened by the US presence and continues to maintain its nuclear weapons program. These tense relations between North and South Korea have existed since the end of the Korean War in 1953, although both states are still formally at war.

The US and South Korea have increased their defense cooperation in view of the threat from North Korea. Trump's plans to resume dialogue with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, meanwhile, are raising questions as previous negotiations have failed to deliver results on ending North Korea's nuclear program. In this context, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already indicated a tougher line towards North Korea and described Kim as a dictator.

Economic dimensions

In addition to the security policy aspects, economic factors are also at play. South Korea plans to pay a total of $350 billion to reduce tariffs on South Korean imports to the United States. Of this sum, $200 billion will be paid in cash, while the rest will be invested in joint projects in the shipbuilding industry. Trump also announced that he expected investments from South Korea totaling over $600 billion.

This could be a good deal for both South Korea and the US, especially at a time when political pressure and military tensions are commonplace. The development remains exciting and the progress of the negotiations will certainly be followed closely by many observers.

For more information on geopolitical developments in this region, check out comprehensive coverage from Radio Herford as well as the detailed analyzes of Time online.