Americans Back South Korea's Nuclear-Powered Submarine Plan, Reject Nuclear Weapons

A joint Korea Economic Institute of America-YouGov poll of 1,207 U.S. adults, carried out between Aug. 21 and Sept. 1, indicates that 58% back South Korea’s effort to build nuclear-propelled, conventionally armed submarines, while 42% oppose it. The backing is bipartisan, with 56% of self-identified Democrats, 64% of Republicans, and 62% of independents expressing support. Conversely, 71% of respondents reject any plan for Seoul to develop nuclear weapons.

The study also shows strong confidence in the U.S.-South Korea alliance, with 64% saying it serves U.S. security interests and 56% favoring one outlet or higher U.S. troop presence in the region. Additionally, 71% would back U.S. troops defending South Korea against a North Korean attack, and overall favorability toward South Korea stands at 68%. Views on North Korea remain hostile, with 87% deeming its nuclear disarmament important, though 55% support a new summit with Kim Jong-un under certain conditions.