PPP lawmakers propose special bill on nuclear-powered subs

On Thursday, lawmakers from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) introduced a special bill to assist South Korea's efforts in developing nuclear-powered submarines. Rep. Yu Yong-weon, a PPP representative, proposed the creation of a nuclear-powered submarine strategy committee under the president's authority. This committee would address significant matters pertaining to the nation's nuclear-powered submarine program.

The existing Defense Acquisition Program Act and Nuclear Safety Act fall short in fully considering the unique features of the military's nuclear propulsion systems. Consequently, Yu suggested the committee be chaired by the president and involve the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman to establish a comprehensive government-wide system for the project.

The bill, backed by 30 PPP lawmakers and an independent lawmaker, differs from a government-proposed draft bill presented by the defense ministry. The latter bill suggests forming the committee under the prime minister's supervision. Last month, the defense ministry released a public notice for a draft bill, aiming to establish legal foundations for the Jang Bogo N project.

This project envisions building at least three 8,000-ton conventionally-armed nuclear-propelled attack submarines by the mid-2030s, using low-enriched uranium with a concentration below 20 percent. The PPP intends to incorporate Thursday's proposal into the defense ministry's draft bill during the public feedback period, running until September 7, before submitting the bill to the National Assembly.