Presidents Lee Jae-myung and Donald Trump Agree to Follow-up Consultations on Nuclear-powered Submarine Cooperation
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and U.S. President Donald Trump held a summit in Gyeongju on the 29th, agreeing to proceed with follow-up consultations for the introduction of South Korea’s nuclear-powered conventional submarines. The two leaders also discussed a wide range of topics, including the modernization of the Korea–U.S. alliance, denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and bilateral cooperation in shipbuilding and strategic industries.
At a briefing held at the Gyeongju International Media Center, National Security Advisor Wi Sung-rak said, “The two leaders had in-depth discussions on economic conditions, alliance modernization, regional stability, peace on the Korean Peninsula, and cooperation in shipbuilding between the two nations.”
President Lee emphasized that “the Korea–U.S. alliance plays a vital role in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region,” raising the issue of strengthening defense spending and pursuing the introduction of nuclear-powered conventional submarines.
President Trump reportedly expressed agreement, noting that “given North Korea’s recent development of nuclear submarines, South Korea’s enhanced capability in this area is both necessary and understandable,” and proposed continued consultations.
President Lee also requested U.S. cooperation in peaceful uranium enrichment and the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel, explaining that “a significant portion of South Korea’s nuclear fuel is imported from Russia, and the disposal of nuclear waste has become an urgent issue.”
President Trump agreed, saying that both countries should “seek broader opportunities for cooperation in nuclear energy and other key strategic industries based on South Korea’s advanced capabilities.”
The two leaders reaffirmed their shared goal of reducing tensions and pursuing denuclearization through a phased approach of suspension, reduction, and dismantlement. Trump stated that “North Korea’s nuclear development poses a serious threat to security on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia,” emphasizing the need to strengthen deterrence through the alliance.
Regarding potential U.S.–North Korea dialogue, Trump said he “maintains a good relationship with Kim Jong Un” and is “ready to engage in talks again at any time if Chairman Kim wishes to do so.” He added that he would continue to “play a constructive role in realizing peace on the Korean Peninsula based on the 2018 Singapore Agreement” and would “closely consult with President Lee throughout that process.”
To ensure tangible outcomes from the summit, both sides agreed to establish a bilateral shipbuilding cooperation consultative body between the National Security Councils (NSC) of South Korea and the United States. The leaders also discussed expanding cooperation in manufacturing, with Trump noting that “the U.S. economy remains strong, investment conditions continue to improve, and we look forward to increased Korean participation in the American manufacturing boom.”
Before the summit, President Lee awarded President Trump the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea’s highest national honor, at an official welcoming ceremony held at the Gyeongju National Museum. The decoration, usually reserved for foreign heads of state who have contributed to Korea’s security and peace, makes Trump the first U.S. president ever to receive this honor.
President Lee also presented a replica of the Silla-era Cheonmachong gold crown, symbolizing both the long era of peace achieved by the ancient Korean kingdom and the new era of shared peace and prosperity that the two nations aim to build together.
During the luncheon that followed, a special Korean fusion menu was served in honor of President Trump. The meal began with local specialties—such as shrimp from Shinan, scallops from Goheung, and abalone from Wando—paired with Thousand Island dressing, symbolizing Trump’s home state of New York. The main course featured braised short ribs made with Gyeongju rice, Gongju chestnuts, Pyeongchang radish and carrots, and American beef, harmonizing flavors from both countries.
Dessert included a gold-decorated brownie and tangerine, with the word “PEACE!” inscribed on the plate to commemorate the two leaders’ earlier promise to act as “peacemakers.”
At the evening state dinner hosted by President Lee, guests were treated to an elaborate menu featuring Yeongwol black-boned chicken dumplings with truffle, Gyeongju Hanwoo sirloin with Namsan pine mushrooms, Guryongpo halibut, and Jirisan caviar. The wines served were Trump Chardonnay and Trump Cabernet Sauvignon, from the winery operated by Trump’s son, Eric Trump.
President Trump extended an invitation for President Lee to visit the White House, to which Lee expressed gratitude and agreed to coordinate a mutually convenient schedule.
Concluding the briefing, National Security Advisor Wi stated, “The key achievement of this summit was confirming the U.S. government’s active willingness to cooperate on strategic issues aimed at modernizing the alliance. This meeting has opened a new chapter in the future-oriented Korea–U.S. partnership.”
