North Korea has remained silent on the news of South Korea’s plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines from the U.S. Instead, Pyongyang seems to be keeping a watchful eye on U.S.-South Korea developments by reporting on Russia’s recent launch of a nuclear submarine.
On November 7, the ruling Workers’ Party newspaper Rodong Sinmun briefly covered the launch ceremony of Russia’s new nuclear submarine Khabarovsk, which was attended by Defense Minister Andrey Belousov.
The newspaper stated that the Khabarovsk would be equipped with advanced underwater weapons for its missions but provided no specific details about the submarine’s primary tasks or weapon systems. Notably, Russia announced on November 1 that this submarine could potentially carry the nuclear-powered underwater drone Poseidon.
While the report was brief, analysts suggest it indicates North Korea’s awareness of the ongoing discussions between South Korea and the U.S. regarding the introduction of nuclear submarines.
On October 29, South Korea and the U.S. held a summit during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Gyeongju, where they agreed on South Korea’s acquisition of nuclear submarines. Since then, working-level discussions have been underway concerning the shipyard responsible for constructing the submarines and the supply of nuclear fuel from the U.S.
Despite these developments, North Korea has not officially responded to the U.S.-South Korea nuclear submarine initiative. President Lee Jae Myung has requested nuclear fuel for the submarines from the U.S., explaining that diesel submarines have limited underwater capabilities, making it difficult to track North Korean or Chinese submarines effectively. This has raised concerns about potential North Korean retaliation through statements or military provocations.
The Rodong Sinmun report comes amid speculation that Russia may have provided North Korea with nuclear propulsion systems from decommissioned submarines in exchange for the deployment of North Korean troops to Kursk. In March, North Korea revealed for the first time that it was constructing a nuclear submarine and showcased part of the hull. Based on the released images, experts estimate that North Korea is developing a nuclear submarine with a displacement of approximately 10,000 tons.
