Seoul Establishes Task Forces for Key US Negotiations on Nuclear Submarines, Uranium Rights, and Defense Costs

Presidential Office Initiates Negotiation Teams

Seoul, Republic of Korea – The Republic of Korea's presidential office announced on Sunday, December 7, 2025, the establishment of dedicated task forces aimed at preparing for crucial working-level negotiations with the United States. These teams will focus on three significant areas: the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, the expansion of uranium enrichment rights, and defense cost-sharing.

Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Hyun-jong confirmed that the Office of National Security has been developing a roadmap for these discussions, which are a direct follow-up to security agreements reached during summit meetings between President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump in August and October 2025. Working-level discussions commenced in December 2025, with tangible outcomes anticipated in the first half of 2026.

Advancing Nuclear Capabilities: Submarines and Enrichment

A key focus of the negotiations will be South Korea's long-sought goal of operating nuclear-powered submarines. The United States has already approved Seoul's plan to build these vessels, marking a significant development. While South Korea intends to construct these submarines domestically, discussions will delve into critical aspects such as shipyard arrangements and fuel supply.

The task forces will also address South Korea's desire for expanded rights to enrich uranium and reprocess spent nuclear fuel for peaceful purposes. This represents a notable shift, as the U.S. has expressed support for this process, aligning with the bilateral 123 Agreement and U.S. legal requirements. Previously, these activities were subject to strict limitations under existing accords.

Defense Cost-Sharing and Alliance Modernization

The third area of negotiation involves defense cost-sharing, a recurring topic in the U.S.-Republic of Korea alliance. South Korea has committed to increasing its defense spending to 3.5% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a pledge formalized in a joint fact sheet issued in November 2025. Despite an existing Special Measures Agreement (SMA) for 2026-2030, former U.S. President Donald Trump has consistently advocated for higher contributions from Seoul for the upkeep of U.S. troops stationed in the country.

The formation of these task forces underscores a broader effort by both nations to modernize their alliance and enhance their collective response to regional security challenges, including those posed by China.

Task Force Structure

Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Hyun-jong detailed the specific structure of the newly formed task forces:

• One task force is dedicated to consultations regarding enriched uranium.
• A second team will focus on matters related to nuclear-powered submarines.
• The third task force will handle negotiations concerning defense budgeting.