North Korea Condemns South Korea’s Nuclear Submarine Initiative

North Korea’s foreign ministry delivered a sharp rebuke after Seoul announced plans to construct nuclear‑powered submarines. Deputy Minister Jang Kum‑chol described the proposal as a step toward acquiring nuclear weapons and warned that it endangers the stability of the Korean Peninsula.

He accused the United States and South Korea of deepening a submarine partnership that threatens regional peace. The statement, released by the Korean Central News Agency, also suggested that Pyongyang’s own military capabilities are being enhanced to counter the perceived danger.

South Korean officials countered the criticism, emphasizing that the submarines will be powered by nuclear energy but armed only with conventional weapons. They reaffirmed compliance with the Nuclear Non‑Proliferation Treaty and ongoing consultations with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Experts note that the dispute could intensify strategic tensions, especially as North Korea draws closer to Russia and China on security matters.