Korea Joongang Daily
Korea JoongAng Daily

Defense Ministry seeks legal framework for nuclear-powered submarines amid U.S. support

The Ministry of National Defense is pushing to propose a special law supporting the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines, sources said on Tuesday, as the United States has allowed Korea to secure fuel for nuclear-powered submarines.

2026-02-10

Nuclear power plant construction back on, as Lee administration restarts plans for new reactors

The Lee Jae Myung administration is going forward with the construction of two new nuclear power plants that had earlier been put on hold for a public consensus process. It is now facing criticism for wasting time under the pretext of deliberation.

2026-01-26

Gov't launches consultative body on uranium, nuclear rights ahead of U.S. negotiations

A government consultative body was launched on Friday to prepare for negotiations with the United States over expanded rights for uranium enrichment and nuclear fuel reprocessing.

2026-01-11

For North Korea, U.S. strike on Venezuela reaffirms nuclear arsenal's necessity

North Korea views Nicolas Maduro's capture as confirmation of U.S. threats, reinforcing Kim Jong-un's reliance on nuclear weapons for regime security. This incident may harden North Korea's stance toward negotiations and diplomacy.

2026-01-10

North Korean leader seems to reference Venezuela a day after 'hypersonic' missile drill

Kim Jong-un emphasized the need for a stronger nuclear deterrent amid complex international events, coinciding with North Korea's hypersonic missile tests, interpreted by analysts as a response to U.S. actions in Venezuela.

2026-01-05

Korea's nuclear safety commission approves operation of Saeul-3 reactor

The Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC) has approved the operation of the Saeul-3, a reactor at the Saeul Nuclear Power Plant in Ulju County, Ulsan, clearing the way for its full commissioning set for next year.

2025-12-30

Pentagon says China will have more than 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030, posing direct threat to U.S.

The U.S. government has warned that China’s accelerating buildup of nuclear weapons has reached a level that poses a direct threat to the U.S. mainland.

2025-12-29

North Korea showcasing 'second-strike capability' with submarine reveal, expert says

North Korea revealed the exterior of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine currently under construction for the first time on Thursday.

2025-12-25

Seoul, Washington set course for nuclear-powered sub agreement, follow-up talks planned

South Korea and the United States agreed to pursue a separate deal on cooperation for the construction of nuclear-powered submarines, Seoul's top security adviser said Friday.

2025-12-24

U.S. nuclear-powered submarine arrives in Korea to replenish supplies

A U.S. nuclear-powered submarine arrived at a key naval base in the southeastern city of Busan on Tuesday to replenish supplies and provide rest for crew members, South Korea's Navy said.

2025-12-23