As climate change accelerates the melting of Arctic ice, previously inaccessible shipping lanes are becoming viable trade routes - cutting transit times and reshaping global logistics. In this context, South Korea and Japan’s advanced icebreaker shipbuilding capabilities are emerging as potential leverage in ongoing tariff discussions with the United States, which is seeking allies to counter growing Chinese and Russian influence in the region, Korea JoongAng Daily reported.

Japan’s Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, has signalled interest in positioning icebreaker cooperation as a key point in negotiations with President Donald Trump, scheduled for final talks during the G7 summit in Canada this June.

Demand for icebreakers is set to rise due to the push to open Arctic passages. A Korean industry report notes the US aims to procure ten such vessels by 2037. Korea, with its commercial icebreaker expertise, holds a competitive edge. Unlike Japan, which focuses on research-focused ships, Korea has built several Arc-7 class vessels, capable of cutting through 2.1-metre-thick ice in either direction.

Samsung Heavy Industries pioneered two-way icebreaking tankers in 2005 and continues to collaborate with Russia on Arctic LNG carriers. Hanwha Ocean also remains active in constructing high-capacity vessels for global clients.

Arctic shipping offers reduced travel times—up to 30% shorter than conventional routes. With climate change enabling year-round navigation by 2030, Korea is well-placed to propose joint ventures, strengthening its hand in trade and geopolitical influence.

The shift from climate risk to Arctic opportunity is reshaping trade alliances. For Korea and Japan, tech advantage may soon translate into real negotiating power. That said, it’s worth recognising that the very conditions creating these new trade routes also reflect broader environmental changes. Any long-term gains must be weighed against the accelerating pace of climate change and its irreversible consequences.