Defense Ministry Announces Fuel Negotiations Timeline South Korea’s defense ministry will open talks with the United States to obtain nuclear fuel for its planned nuclear‑powered submarines, targeting completion of negotiations within two years [1][2]. The initiative was presented during a policy briefing to President Lee Jae Myung and follows recent U.S. approval of Seoul’s submarine push [1][2]. Officials cite momentum from the Trump administration as a catalyst for the accelerated schedule [1].

Blueprint and Governance Structure Planned for 2026 The ministry will draft a comprehensive blueprint next year outlining development principles, construction plans, and a non‑proliferation stance for the submarine program [1][2]. A pangovernment body will be created to designate the effort a national strategic initiative and to draft safety regulations and ordinances for submarine nuclear reactors [1][2]. This governance framework aims to align civilian oversight with military requirements.

Treaty Revision or Separate Agreement Required Securing fuel may necessitate revising the existing bilateral nuclear energy agreement, which currently limits U.S. fuel transfers to peaceful civilian uses [1]. Officials also suggest a standalone fuel agreement could be negotiated, sidestepping a full treaty amendment [2]. Both articles note that the current pact does not cover military‑grade fuel, creating a legal hurdle for the program.

Operational Control Transfer Targets Set for 2030 Seoul intends to retake wartime operational control (OPCON) from the United States by 2030 and is advancing the second stage of a three‑stage assessment of its ability to lead allied forces by the November 2026 defense chiefs’ meeting [1][2]. At the Security Consultative Meeting, defense ministers agreed to seek certification of full operational capability next year and to develop a roadmap accelerating OPCON transfer [1][2]. These milestones tie the submarine program to broader strategic autonomy goals.