top of page
Global Affairs Lab
U.S. - Korea relationship


South Korea–U.S. Nuclear Talks Highlight Shared Security and Strategic Interests
The launch of South Korea–U.S. consultations on nuclear-powered submarines and expanded nuclear cooperation reflects growing efforts by both countries to strengthen maritime security and long-term strategic coordination in the Indo-Pacific region. As maritime trade routes become increasingly important and regional naval capabilities continue to evolve, Seoul has sought to enhance its ability to conduct extended underwater operations while improving its overall defense readine
3 days ago


U.S. Closely Watches South Korea’s Nuclear-Powered Submarine Project
South Korea has officially unveiled its roadmap for developing the country’s first nuclear-powered submarine, marking the beginning of a long-term national project that combines maritime security, advanced industry, and strategic infrastructure. The government aims to launch its first nuclear-powered submarine in the mid-2030s, followed by operational deployment later in the decade. The project, named the “Jangbogo-N Project,” is being described as more than a simple naval sh
May 27


Digital Regulation and Alliance Friction: Why U.S.–South Korea Digital Conflicts Harm Both Sides
1. Introduction 1.1 Digital Regulation as a New Strategic Issue For decades, the global digital economy expanded under a laissez-faire paradigm, assuming that minimal intervention would maximize technological progress. Today, however, that consensus has fractured. Driven by concerns over market dominance, data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and digital sovereignty, governments worldwide are aggressively redefining the boundary between innovation and regulation. Democratic
May 18


Industry Minister Visits Canada and the U.S. to Support Submarine Bid and Discuss Investment Cooperation
SEOUL, May 5 — Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan is visiting Canada and the United States to support South Korea’s efforts to secure a major overseas shipbuilding contract and to discuss bilateral investment cooperation. According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Kim will meet with Canadian government officials in Ottawa to discuss Canada's next-generation conventional submarine acquisition program. The project involves the construction of up to 12 submarines and
May 5


Hanwha Partners with U.S. Autonomous Maritime Firm on MUSV—A New Pillar in the Korea-U.S. Defense Alliance
The era of unmanned fleets cutting through open seas is no longer a distant vision—it is unfolding now. Hanwha Defense USA has joined forces with U.S.-based maritime autonomy specialist Magnet Defense to launch the development of a Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV), marking a pivotal shift in Korea-U.S. defense cooperation. At National Harbor in Maryland on April 20 (local time), the two companies formalized a strategic partnership that goes beyond conventional collaborat
Apr 23
bottom of page