Washington: National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac has stated his intention to explore the possibility of establishing a separate bilateral agreement with Washington in support of Seoul's initiative to develop nuclear-powered submarines. Wi made these remarks upon his arrival in Washington on Tuesday, following a joint fact sheet release by South Korea and the U.S. detailing trade and security agreements from the recent summit between President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Wi highlighted Australia's precedent, where an exception was made under Section 91 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act, allowing a bilateral agreement to facilitate Australia's acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. Wi indicated that South Korea might seek a similar arrangement, as current agreements prohibit the use of nuclear material for military purposes under a bilateral civil nuclear cooperation pact.

Wi also addressed the potential for launching a separate consultative body to support South Korea's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines, emphasizing the need for accelerated consultations. "There are preparations from our side, and I will see what is going on with the U.S. side," he stated, underscoring the importance of expediting discussions.

In the context of uranium enrichment and spent nuclear fuel reprocessing capabilities, Wi noted the necessity of follow-up measures, acknowledging that broader agreements have already been made. When questioned about the possibility of discussing inter-Korean dialogue and U.S.-North Korea relations during his visit, Wi expressed his intent to exchange views on these topics and potentially meet with United Nations officials.

Wi remarked on the favorable atmosphere in the South Korea-U.S. alliance and other U.S. alliances, suggesting that this could be leveraged to improve North Korean relations. He stressed the significance of South Korea-U.S. coordination in managing North Korean issues, despite differing opinions on whether these issues have been deprioritized by the U.S.

Before concluding his visit, Wi is scheduled to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright in Washington, with plans to return home via New York.