diff --git a/artiq/coredevice/core.py b/artiq/coredevice/core.py
index 4ad85b780..7fc853bed 100644
--- a/artiq/coredevice/core.py
+++ b/artiq/coredevice/core.py
@@ -212,7 +212,7 @@ class Core:
 
         embedding_map, kernel_library, symbolizer, demangler, subkernel_arg_types = \
             self.compile(function, args, kwargs, set_result, attribute_writeback=False)
-        self.compile_subkernels(embedding_map, args, subkernel_arg_types)
+        self.compile_and_upload_subkernels(embedding_map, args, subkernel_arg_types)
 
         @wraps(function)
         def run_precompiled():