The US and Seoul are negotiating defense agreements. South Korea shows interest in nuclear submarines

During his visit to South Korea, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that although the alliance with Seoul remains primarily focused on deterring North Korea, the United States is seeking greater flexibility in the deployment of its troops.

He hinted that the 28,500 US soldiers in the region could also be deployed in other conflicts in the future, such as against China.

South Korea is responding cautiously, but is expanding cooperation. The country will maintain and repair US ships and is negotiating higher defense investments.

Hegseth also confirmed that US President Donald Trump supports Seoul's plans to build nuclear submarines and considers South Korea a strong ally.

However, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back assured that the country is not seeking to develop nuclear weapons. Both ministers emphasized the need to continue talks on defense spending and a joint strategic document.

(reuters, lup)