South Korean Experts Debate Nuclear Armament Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Amid escalating nuclear threats from North Korea, a seminar in Seoul has sparked renewed discussions among South Korean experts on whether the country should pursue its own nuclear weapons program, given the waning effectiveness of U.S. protective assurances. The forum, organized by the Seoul Defense Forum, highlighted the dire consequences of potential nuclear attacks from the North, with experts warning that failure to bolster self-defense could lead to catastrophic outcomes. Concurrently, North Korea has been ramping up missile tests, indicating a lack of intent to denuclearize, which raises concerns about regional security and U.S. strategic responses. Observers note that the current geopolitical climate, including the U.S.'s shifting focus away from North Korea amid negotiations with Russia, undermines international norms against nuclear proliferation. The stagnation of U.N. sanctions against North Korea further complicates efforts to address these threats, as political divisions hinder the enforcement of accountability measures. This complex environment underscores the urgency for a reassessment of both South Korean defense strategies and international diplomatic approaches to North Korea's nuclear ambitions.