North Korea Pushes Forward Nuclear-Powered Submarine Development During Shipyard Inspection, Amid Doubts Over Reactor Feasibility

Since at least 2016, the DPRK has been developing submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) capabilities, using a 2,000-ton Sinpo-class submarine primarily as a test platform.

PYONGYANG - During Kim Jong Un’s visit to an unspecified shipyard, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) released images of a nuclear-powered submarine under construction, as stated by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Photo of the submarine. Credit: KCNA

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On March 8, 2025, Kim Jong Un conducted field guidance at major shipyards to evaluate warship construction and modernization efforts, aligning with the Eighth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) objectives to advance the DPRK’s maritime power and shipbuilding industry.

North Korean President visits shipyard. Credit: KCNA

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