South Korea is considering sharing advanced military technology with its allies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia through the AUKUS partnership. This was revealed by South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik during a meeting between South Korea and Australia’s defense and foreign ministers in Melbourne. The partnership was formed in 2021 when the US and UK agreed to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines to counter China’s military presence.
Shin expressed his support for South Korea being considered as an AUKUS Pillar 2 partner by the three countries involved. He mentioned that South Korea’s defense science and technology capabilities would contribute to the peace, stability, and development of AUKUS Pillar 2 and regional peace. Japan is also in talks to formally join AUKUS Pillar 2’s technology development and sharing, further expanding the partnership.
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles welcomed South Korea’s efforts to strengthen its relationship with Japan within the context of the AUKUS partnership. Marles described this as a positive step forward in the strategic landscape of the region, providing Australia with opportunities to engage with both Korea and Japan. Together, Korea and Australia are committed to upholding the rules-based order within their region and globally.