South Korea pursues nuclear submarine development with IAEA oversight as North Korea expands capabilities

South Korea is moving forward with plans to build nuclear-powered submarines in coordination with the International Atomic Energy Agency, with the IAEA chief visiting Seoul to discuss proper procedures for the program. The IAEA chief warned that North Korea has significantly expanded its nuclear enrichment capabilities, underscoring the security pressures driving Seoul's submarine initiative. This development reflects escalating nuclear competition on the Korean Peninsula and raises questions about regional arms dynamics amid North-South military tensions. The move requires IAEA oversight to ensure compliance with non-proliferation standards.