South Korea's Nuclear Submarine Program Faces Cost and Strategic Challenges (warontherocks.com)

• South Korea plans to build four nuclear submarines; first expected after 2036.
• Nuclear submarine program could cost tens of billions and lock in budgets for decades.
• Modern conventional submarines and UUVs may provide more cost-effective deterrence.

"In late May 2026, South Korea announced a Basic Plan for nuclear-powered submarines, aiming to counter North Korean underwater threats. This article argues the plan is misguided due to high costs, complexity, and poor fit with the country's export-oriented defense industry. Nuclear submarine construction would drain talent from more innovative sectors, create long-term budgetary lock-in, and may not offer decisive advantages over modern diesel-electric boats like the KSS-III class with lithium-ion batteries. The first of four planned submarines is unlikely to enter service before the mid-2030s."