Implica

May 31, 2026

South Korea and US remain deadlocked over nuclear and trade talks

South Korea and the United States were still divided on key trade and security issues ahead of talks in Seoul, including civilian nuclear cooperation and plans for nuclear-powered submarines.

Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said Seoul wants to revise its nuclear agreement with Washington to allow uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing. The deadlock matters because the talks could shape South Korea’s energy policy, defense capabilities, and wider alliance ties with the United States.

  • South Korea is among the world’s leading shipbuilders.
  • Civilian nuclear fuel rules are often among the most tightly controlled parts of a U.S. alliance.
  • Nuclear-powered submarines are usually associated with the world’s biggest military navies.
South Korea and US remain deadlocked over nuclear and trade talks | Implica