South Korea could contribute to that second stage with its defence, science and technological capabilities, Shin said at a news conference after a meeting between Australia and South Korea’s foreign and defence ministers in Melbourne.
“During today’s meeting we also discussed the possibility of partnering with Aukus Pillar 2,” he said.
“We support Aukus Pillar 2 activities and we do welcome that members are considering Korea as an Aukus Pillar 2 partner.”
It is the strategic research partnerships under pillar two of Aukus that interests regional partners including Seoul.
As Aukus Pillar 2 develops there will be opportunities in the future, and we’re seeing that play out in relation to Japan as well
“Korea is a country with deeply impressive technology where we do have shared values,” said Defence Minister Richard Marles.
“As Aukus Pillar 2 develops there will be opportunities in the future, and we’re seeing that play out in relation to Japan as well.”
Expanding the pact faces hurdles from strict US restrictions on sharing technology, which Canberra and London worry could bog down the deal for all if new members are added too quickly.
The US State Department on Tuesday unveiled a plan to relax those restrictions and make it easier to transfer military gear and sensitive technology to Britain and Australia.