South Korea to build testing facility for nuclear submarine reactors by next year.

According to information published by Chosun Online on August 6, 2024, it has been revealed that South Korea is moving forward with plans to develop small nuclear reactors for submarines in an exclusive report.
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ROK Navy's Dosan Ahn Changho class submarine Shin Chae-ho. (Picture source: HHI)

The push for deploying nuclear-powered submarines dates back to the Roh Moo-hyun administration, but progress had been stalled due to the challenges of securing uranium fuel and a lack of support from the United States. However, plans to construct a land-based testing facility for small nuclear reactors next year have been confirmed.

The facility, named the Munmu Daewang Science Research Institute, is scheduled to be completed in Gampo-eup, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, by next year.

Originally announced in 2021, the institute was intended for the development of small nuclear reactors for civilian maritime use. Recent findings indicate that military authorities and defense-related companies are also advancing the development of small nuclear reactors for submarines.

A government source confirmed that the testing facility at the Munmu Daewang Science Research Institute will be integral to developing these reactors, with the aim of completing the project by the early 2030s.

Previous discussions on deploying nuclear-powered submarines took place during the Moon Jae-in administration, with uranium procurement being a critical issue.

The reactors for these submarines are expected to use low-enriched uranium fuel with a concentration of 19.75%. Unlike highly enriched uranium, which exceeds 20% concentration and is subject to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections due to its potential use in nuclear weapons, low-enriched uranium is not subject to such stringent oversight.

Recent statements by the commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command publicly supporting South Korea’s deployment of nuclear-powered submarines reflect a shift in the U.S. stance, with some progress reported in securing a supply of low-enriched uranium.