AUKUS naturally raises the question of whether Japan and South Korea will seek similar reactor access. Japan may eventually want nuclear boats because of its maritime distances, although nuclear technology remains politically sensitive there. South Korea's operating problem is different, and more diesel-electric submarines may provide greater value. The comparison again ties propulsion to geography, politics, and attainable fleet numbers rather than to alliance status alone.
Notable Point · 3:33:22-3:33:49
Japan and South Korea face different submarine choices
Japan might value nuclear endurance but faces strong domestic sensitivities, while South Korea could gain more from a larger conventional fleet.