The U.S. Department of State said it expects "continued collaboration in robust scientific research" with South Korea in relation to South Korea's addition to the sensitive country list of the U.S. Department of Energy.
Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said during a briefing that when asked about why the Department of Energy placed South Korea on the sensitive country list, "Since it is designated by the Department of Energy, please contact them for inquiries."
He noted that "the United States places great importance on its close relationship with South Korea in scientific research cooperation."
Earlier, the U.S. Department of Energy revealed that South Korea was designated as a sensitive country during the Biden administration in early January and that this will take effect on April 15. Once designated as a sensitive country, prior approval from the Department of Energy is required to visit related facilities or subordinate research institutes or to conduct joint research with these institutions.
Joseph Yun, Deputy Ambassador to South Korea, explained on the 18th that South Korea was placed on the sensitive country list for mishandling sensitive information, and that this is unrelated to South Korea's diplomatic and security policies.