North Korea has sharply criticized a recent agreement between the United States and South Korea, which allows Seoul to develop nuclear-powered attack submarines. The deal was unveiled last month following a summit between President Lee Jae Myung of South Korea and President Donald Trump. It also includes commitments by both nations to work toward disarming North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.
Why It Matters
The North’s state news agency, KCNA, warned that South Korea’s new nuclear ambitions, backed by U.S. support, could spark a “nuclear domino” effect in the region, escalating tensions and potentially triggering an arms race. Analysts say such developments could destabilize security dynamics in East Asia, heightening the risk of confrontation between the peninsula’s nuclear-armed actors.
North Korea (DPRK): Opposes the deal, sees it as a direct threat to its security, and uses the rhetoric to pressure the U.S. and South Korea.
South Korea (ROK): Views nuclear-powered submarines as essential for defense, particularly against North Korean threats and regional naval challenges, including China.
United States: Supports South Korea’s nuclear submarine program and continues diplomatic overtures with North Korea, including Trump’s willingness to meet Kim Jong Un.
Regional observers: China, Japan, and other neighboring states are monitoring developments closely, concerned about regional security and potential escalation.
What’s Next
Seoul has clarified it harbors no hostile intent toward the North, framing its cooperation with the U.S. as purely defensive. Meanwhile, North Korea shows little inclination to return to dialogue unless the U.S. recognizes it as a nuclear state. Analysts say the next months could see heightened rhetoric, military drills, or diplomatic efforts to ease tensions.
With information from Reuters.
