Time to turn ROK-US agreement into action
As the first anniversary of the ROK–U.S. Joint Fact Sheet singed in November 2025 approaches, Seoul and Washington should demonstrate concrete progress in implementing their commitments. The United States approved South Korea’s construction of nuclear-powered submarines and pledged close cooperation on the requirements for the program, including avenues to source fuel. Those political commitments…
As the one-year mark of the ROK-US Joint Fact Sheet in November 2025 looms, Seoul and Washington must show tangible progress in fulfilling their commitments. The United States has agreed to support South Korea's development of nuclear-powered submarines and agreed on avenues for fuel cooperation. However, these political pledges need to be turned into specific timelines and clearly defined responsibilities.
Simply securing a shipyard is not enough to build a nuclear-powered submarine. Fuel specifications, supply arrangements, and alignment of reactor design, construction, and entry into service are essential steps. Delays in fuel cooperation could trigger design changes, escalate costs, and create uncertainty for businesses contemplating investment.
Diplomatic negotiations and domestic efforts must not become a stalemate where each side waits for the other's decisions. Some advancement has been made. In December 2025, South Korea and the United States' foreign affairs officials agreed on the urgency to advance the process forward.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Time to turn ROK-US agreement into action koreatimes.co.kr
