South Korean President Lee States North Korea Has Nuclear Arms Enough for Regime Survival, Vows to Reduce Security Risks

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung stated that North Korea has secured sufficient nuclear weapons to ensure regime survival and is close to completing intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) technology capable of reaching the U.S. He warned that Pyongyang could add 15-20 nuclear bombs annually if unchecked, raising concerns about potential weapons exports. Speaking at a New York Stock Exchange investor summit, Lee emphasized South Korea's "overwhelming" military strength and plans to bolster defense spending to reassure global investors and counterbalance geopolitical risks that have undervalued the Korean market. Lee outlined a three-stage plan aimed at halting nuclear production in the short term, reducing arms midterm, and pursuing denuclearization long term to foster lasting peace on the peninsula. He stressed that his administration is committed to dialogue with North Korea alongside strengthening defenses to create a positive investment environment. Overall, Lee sought to reduce security risks and reinforce investor confidence despite ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula.