North Korea appears poised to conduct a launching ceremony for its nuclear-powered submarine next April, marking the acquisition of a highly survivable retaliatory force to complement its land-based nuclear capabilities, with related infrastructure also under preparation. Furthermore, this signifies the North Korean Navy’s transition from a coastal defense focus to securing blue-water operational capabilities following the introduction of its new destroyers. This shift is anticipated to disrupt the balance of power in Northeast Asia and trigger a nuclear submarine arms race with South Korea. Even if Russia has provided two to three submarine nuclear reactors (Russia supplied reactors), it is anticipated that a prolonged period will be required for actual operational deployment, given the time needed for reactor maintenance, radioactive material management, sea trials, and weapons testing.