South Korea Navigates IAEA Hurdles in Nuclear Submarine Program
South Korea is undertaking significant research and legal preparations as it moves forward with plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, a project that requires navigating complex international regulations and securing exemptions from International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. The process highlights the unique challenges faced by non-nuclear weapon states seeking to deploy nuclear propulsion technology.
IAEA Safeguards and Nuclear Submarines
All nuclear materials in non-nuclear-weapon states party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and with a Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) with the IAEA are subject to IAEA safety measures [International Atomic Energy Agency]. This includes nuclear fuel intended for use in submarines, necessitating consultation with the IAEA for potential exemptions. Currently, there are no precedents for a non-nuclear-weapon state operating nuclear submarines, and the IAEA lacks experience in crafting agreements for such exemptions.
Research and Legal Framework Development
The South Korean Ministry of National Defense has commissioned research to address these challenges, focusing on two key areas: preparing a response to IAEA safety measures for military nuclear fuel and drafting a ‘Special Act to Promote the Nuclear Submarine Project.’ The research into IAEA responses is expected to be completed around the end of September 2026. This includes preparing a non-application agreement outlining the scope and duration of exemptions, and designing alternative safety measures compliant with the NPT.
The Ministry recognizes the need for a robust domestic legal framework and institutional capacity to address IAEA safety concerns. An official from the Ministry stated the need to prepare for discussions on non-application of safety measures related to nuclear submarines, as outlined in Article 14 of the safety measures agreement between Korea and the IAEA.
International Precedents and Challenges
Australia and Brazil are also pursuing nuclear submarine programs and have been in discussions with the IAEA since 2021 regarding safety measure exemptions. However, both countries have reportedly faced difficulties in reaching a special agreement, highlighting the complexity of the process. [Global Defense Corp]
South Korea is concerned that delays in securing IAEA consultations could hinder the nuclear submarine project. Maintaining international trust through transparency in IAEA inspections and audits is also a priority. The Ministry of National Defense is developing plans for voluntary notification, partner country notification, and technical verification to ensure a credible inspection process.
Ensuring Transparency and International Confidence
The Ministry of National Defense is also researching measures to maintain and strengthen international confidence, including establishing transparent nuclear inspections and providing information to partner countries. This includes plans for measuring, sealing, and monitoring nuclear fuel, as well as establishing security management protocols for IAEA inspections.
Research is also underway to analyze domestic and foreign laws related to the project, estimate budgetary requirements, assess the industrial impact of a Nuclear Submarine Special Act, and gauge public acceptance of nuclear waste disposal.