South Korea Eyes Canadian Submarine Project, Deepens Economic Ties with Ottawa
South Korea is actively pursuing participation in Canada’s next-generation submarine project, highlighting its advanced shipbuilding capabilities and potential economic benefits for Canada. This push comes alongside broader efforts to strengthen economic and security cooperation between the two nations.
Korean Submarine Bid
During bilateral talks in Ottawa on February 25, 2026, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun emphasized the proven performance and timely delivery capabilities of Korean submarines to his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand. Cho Hyun stated that Korean involvement in the Canadian project would contribute significantly to revitalizing the Canadian economy and creating high-quality jobs. Korea Post
Minister Anand acknowledged the proposal, stating that Canada’s future submarine program would undergo a fair and thorough review in accordance with established procedures. She as well expressed interest in exploring potential cooperative ventures from the Korean side. Korea Post
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
The discussions between Cho Hyun and Anita Anand extended beyond the submarine project, encompassing supply chain resilience, economic security, and coordination on the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Both ministers agreed to update the “Korea–Canada Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Action Plan” to reflect current geopolitical and economic realities. Korea Post
Both nations recognize their complementary economic structures as a foundation for optimal partnership in economic security cooperation, particularly in upholding a rules-based trading order and addressing global supply chain disruptions. They committed to continued collaboration in these areas. Korea Post
Recent High-Level Meetings
These talks followed earlier engagements between the two countries’ foreign ministers. Minister Anand met with Cho Hyun at the United Nations General Assembly in Novel York City in September 2025, where they discussed deepening cooperation on global issues, bilateral trade, investment, innovation, and defense. Global Affairs Canada, UN Journal
Minister Anand also met with Cho Hyun on September 25, 2025, at the United Nations Headquarters, exchanging views on bilateral relations and regional/international affairs. UN Journal
Looking Ahead
The second Korea-Canada Foreign and Defense (2+2) Ministers’ Meeting is expected to further institutionalize bilateral security and defense cooperation, solidifying the long-term strategic partnership between Canada and South Korea. Continued dialogue and collaboration will be crucial as both nations navigate an evolving global landscape.