Synopsis
South Korea is in active negotiations with the US regarding its placement on the DOE's Sensitive Countries List. The designation has raised concerns about its impact on bilateral relations and technological cooperation. Ongoing discussions aim to address these issues, although a resolution may take time.Key Takeaways
- Negotiations ongoing between South Korea and the US.
- South Korea placed in the DOE's Sensitive Countries List.
- Concerns over science and technology cooperation.
- Designation impacts access to DOE facilities.
- Expectations for a timely resolution.
Washington, April 15 (NationPress) South Korea is persistently engaging in discussions with the United States to address the concerns surrounding its designation on the US Department of Energy (DOE)'s Sensitive and Other Designated Countries List (SCL), as stated by the foreign ministry on Tuesday.
The announcement came as the SCL seemingly took effect on Tuesday. The DOE's categorization of South Korea in the lowest tier of this list has become a contentious issue in the dynamics of bilateral relations, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
"We have been actively engaging in negotiations, including working-level consultations at the director-general levels with the US Department of Energy, along with relevant ministries," the ministry mentioned, noting that both parties have committed to resolving the matter "swiftly through appropriate procedures."
"However, as this situation unfolds in line with US internal protocols, we anticipate it may take additional time," it added.
The DOE confirmed last month that the previous Biden administration had placed South Korea on the SCL in early January—a list that includes North Korea, China, and Russia.
This designation has raised fears that it could hinder scientific and technological collaboration between the allies. Nations on the list face heightened scrutiny when seeking access to DOE research facilities or other venues for technology partnerships or similar endeavors.
The ministry referred to the DOE reaffirming that the designation "will not hinder bilateral collaboration in current or future research and development."
Several sources in Washington indicated that Seoul has not received any notice from the DOE regarding a reversal of the listing before it took effect this week, confirming South Korea's inclusion in the SCL.
