First Japan, now South Korea confirms it’s in Aukus talks on joining defence pact

“During today’s meeting we also discussed the possibility of partnering with Aukus Pillar Two,” Shin said at a news conference following a meeting between Australia and South Korea’s foreign and defence ministers.

“We support Aukus Pillar Two activities and we do welcome that members are considering Korea as an Aukus Pillar Two partner.”

The first stage, or “pillar”, of Aukus is designed to deliver nuclear-powered attack submarines to Australia and is not open to new members.

Talks about potential joint projects with Japan are set to begin this year.

It is the strategic research partnerships under pillar two of Aukus that interests regional partners including Seoul.

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ruled out any suggestion of formally expanding the pact beyond its initial three members in the short term.

Additional reporting by Bloomberg