South Korea has begun new preparations for important security talks with the United States

Seoul

South Korea’s presidential office said on Sunday that it has set up special task force teams to support working-level talks with the United States on major defence and nuclear issues. The talks will focus on nuclear-powered submarines, uranium enrichment rights and South Korea’s share of defence costs.

Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Hyun-jong said the Office of National Security is preparing a clear road map for follow-up steps based on agreements reached during recent summit meetings between President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump. He told reporters that working-level discussions started earlier this month and practical results are expected in the first half of next year.

Kim said that relevant government ministries will lead the talks, while the presidential task forces will offer support and coordination. The new move comes as both Seoul and Washington aim to modernise their alliance. They want South Korea to take on a bigger role in its own defence and to strengthen joint responses to regional security threats, including challenges linked to China.

After his meeting with Lee in Gyeongju during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, President Trump said he had approved South Korea’s plan to build nuclear-powered submarines. This decision will require further talks on shipyard facilities and nuclear fuel supply.

The two countries are also discussing expanded rights for South Korea to enrich uranium and reprocess spent nuclear fuel, which are currently limited under a bilateral agreement. Earlier this week, Lee said Trump suggested a 5:5 partnership plan to help South Korea achieve these goals at home.

South Korea has also pledged to raise its defence spending to 3.5 per cent of its gross domestic product, a promise confirmed in a joint fact sheet issued last month.