Seoul: North Korea has announced the near completion of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine, marking a significant development in its military capabilities. The vessel, described as a "nuclear shield" and a "nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine," was inspected by Kim Jong-un and his daughter, Kim Ju-ae. This revelation indicates that North Korea might soon possess a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), a milestone that would place it significantly ahead of South Korea, which is only beginning to deliberate on the introduction of similar submarines.
According to Yonhap News Agency, photographs released by North Korean media show that the submarine's outer structure is largely complete, suggesting substantial progress towards its operational readiness. Typically, submarine construction involves assembling external hull blocks before installing internal systems, meaning that visible exterior completion often signals advanced construction. Pyongyang's announcement may have been strategically timed as a "Christmas message" to the United States, coinciding with recent discussions between South Korean and U.S. officials on nuclear-powered submarine cooperation. Kim Jong-un has previously criticized South Korea's ambitions in this area, which he perceives as a threat to maritime sovereignty.
The primary concern now is the security implications for South Korea. Since assuming power, Kim Jong-un has persistently advanced North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. A nuclear-powered submarine would represent a significant leap forward, capable of remaining submerged for extended periods, making detection challenging. If equipped with nuclear warheads, such submarines could threaten not only South Korea but also distant targets, including the United States. It is crucial for military authorities to develop strategies and secure weapons systems to counter this emerging threat promptly.
Some analysts suggest that North Korea's economic challenges might hinder its ability to develop such technology independently. Attention has turned to Russia, with whom North Korea has strengthened ties since the Ukraine conflict. The resemblance between North Korea's submarine and Russia's Akula-class SSBNs has fueled speculation of external assistance. Consequently, Seoul must intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent deeper military collaboration between North Korea and Russia. Strengthening deterrence through the South Korea-U.S. alliance is crucial, alongside coordinated measures to prevent illicit technology transfers involving domestic and foreign defense firms.
Ultimately, the most effective response to a nuclear-powered submarine threat is to possess similar capabilities. Therefore, the initiative led by Lee Jae Myung to introduce nuclear-powered submarines in South Korea should proceed with increased urgency.