During his recent visit to South Korea, former U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy emphasized the country's exemplary shipbuilding capabilities, asserting, "We know South Korea's shipbuilding technology is the best in the world." His remarks were made amid mounting concern over the competitiveness of U.S. naval capabilities, particularly as China's naval power grows at an unprecedented rate.
On March 14, 2025, McCarthy met with South Korean National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik, where he expressed strong support for revising U.S. laws to enable the construction and repair of U.S. warships in South Korea. He stated, "Under the current U.S. law, shipbuilding is only possible in the country, but I hope the two countries cooperate by using amendments to the bill to repair and build U.S. ships in Korea." His comments reflect bipartisan recognition within the U.S. Congress of the need to collaborate closely with allies to bolster military readiness.
The constraints imposed by the Jones Act—legislation allowing the construction of U.S. warships solely within the country—have drawn scrutiny as lawmakers seek to adapt. McCarthy's advocacy aligns with efforts to counter diminishing U.S. competitiveness at sea, which could be detrimental as U.S. lawmakers deliberate on new policy measures. Notably, President Donald Trump, following his election late last year, had already signaled this direction during discussions with President Yoon Suk Yeol, noting the importance of cooperation in maintenance, repair, and maintenance (MRO) of naval vessels.
McCarthy’s push for legislative changes is timely, especially as the risks posed by China continue to escalate. Current deliberations within the U.S. Congress are focusing on several significant initiatives, including the proposed "Navy Preparedness Guarantee Act" and the "Coastal Guard Preparedness Guarantee Act," intended to facilitate collaboration with South Korea and other allies on shipbuilding projects. These initiatives are part of broader efforts by the Republican Party to revamp the U.S. naval oversight and operational readiness.
During his meeting with South Korean officials, McCarthy also noted the strong consensus among U.S. lawmakers on the need for allied cooperation to rapidly increase naval competitiveness. This sentiment is underscored by the powerful strategic implications of maritime strength and readiness—both for national defense and as a deterrent against adversities.
McCarthy’s remarks come at a time of heightened scrutiny over military expenditures and capabilities, particularly as defense budgets are reassessed with eyes toward modernization and the integration of advanced technologies. His commitment to pushing for policy reforms indicates not only personal conviction but also reflects broader strategic interests shared among U.S. leaders.
While McCarthy has pledged his support for these legislative changes, the outcome remains to be seen as debate continues over the potential impacts on domestic shipbuilding industries. Concerns persist about reliance on foreign shipbuilding capacities and whether it may undermine domestic jobs and production capabilities.
The conversations between the U.S. and South Korean leaders signify more than just shifts in policy—they represent dynamic efforts to recalibrate military alliances to face contemporary threats from global powers such as China. The actions taken today are aimed at ensuring the naval fleets of tomorrow are not only formidable but are constructed and maintained through cooperative endeavors with trusted allies.
McCarthy's public endorsement of South Korean shipbuilding capabilities and his call for legal amendments to facilitate this cooperation are steps toward cementing the strategic partnership formed over decades. The growing recognition of South Korea as not merely a partner but as an integral player in enhancing U.S. naval capabilities could signal a substantial shift in military strategy moving forward.
With both nations positioning themselves against the backdrop of increasing maritime tensions, the path to amending U.S. naval construction laws could herald new levels of collaboration not only for shipbuilding but for broader security initiatives aligning U.S. interests with those of South Korea. This evolution presents opportunities to strengthen defense ties and establish mutual benefits—a shared stance on ensuring regional stability amid the growing assertiveness of other maritime forces.