Defense ministry seeks talks with US on nuclear-powered sub fuel, aiming to conclude in 2 years

The defense ministry said Thursday it will seek to hold negotiations with the United States to gain access to fuel to build nuclear-powered submarines, with the aim of completing the envisioned talks within two years. The ministry outlined the plan during a policy briefing to President Lee Jae Myung earlier in the day, as Korea's push for nuclear-powered submarines has gained momentum with the backing of U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. Granting access to nuclear fuel for submarines requires a revision of a bilateral nuclear energy agreement between Korea and the U.S., but Korean officials have hinted at a standalone deal. Under the plan, the ministry will draw up a detailed blueprint next year covering Korea's principles for developing nuclear-powered submarines, construction plans and its stance on nuclear nonproliferation. It also plans to establish a pangovernment body to designate the project as a national strategic initiative, while preparing safety regulations and ordinances related to the use of nuclear reactors in submarines. The ministry also vowed to make progress