Australian Ambassador Jeff Robinson told Yonhap News Agency on April 12 that South Korea's nuclear-powered submarine drive and Australia's AUKUS program are separate but proceeding in parallel. He stressed that both must build international trust in their peaceful intentions. Robinson also highlighted shared energy security challenges amid the Middle East crisis and deepening defense ties.
Australian Ambassador to South Korea Jeff Robinson said in a Yonhap News Agency interview on April 12 that Seoul's nuclear-propelled submarine ambitions are primarily a matter between Korea and the United States, distinct from the AUKUS pact. "It's a separate U.S.-Korea endeavor ... but we are on parallel paths," Robinson stated. AUKUS, announced in 2021 and signed in 2024, enables Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines using U.S. propulsion technology via a special exemption.
Canberra has focused on transparency to meet nonproliferation standards and assure the world it is "not a cover for an illicit nuclear weapons program," Robinson noted, an issue Seoul may also face. Korea has supported Australia's efforts, and he foresees collaboration "in pushing back against misrepresenting narratives."
The Middle East crisis and de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz have underscored the countries' alignment as energy security partners, with Robinson saying joint government statements "could almost be written in the other's capital." Both joined a Britain-led ministerial meeting calling for de-escalation to reopen the vital waterway.
Recent defense exports from South Korea, including K9 self-propelled howitzers (AS9 Huntsman) and Redback infantry fighting vehicles, build on Australia's United Nations Command role. Robinson hopes for a bilateral framework to underpin military and defense industry cooperation. This year marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties, celebrated via "The Australia-Korea Bridged by People," an online series on interpersonal connections.
