Wanting to rely on the US's deterrent power, South Korea affirms that it does not choose to possess nuclear weapons.

South Korea is treading cautiously amid growing calls that it should opt for its own nuclear weapons.

The choice to possess nuclear weapons is not the position of the South Korean government. (Source: Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists)

Yonhap news agency reported that on July 17, speaking at a session of the South Korean National Assembly, Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul emphasized that choosing to possess nuclear weapons is not the government's stance.

According to him, issues related to nuclear weapons need to be further considered, in addition to revising the Korea-US agreement on the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

The nuclear weapons issue also needs to be carefully and comprehensively considered, given the potential for conflict with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the economic risks.

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul made the remarks as the idea of ​​South Korea considering acquiring its own nuclear weapons has recently been revived and is gaining traction in political circles as Russia and North Korea strengthen military ties.

In a policy report submitted to the National Assembly, the South Korean Foreign Ministry said that Seoul is working to strengthen its alliance with the United States. Strengthening the US nuclear deterrent is a realistic and desirable option for South Korea.

Previously, on July 12, South Korea and the United States signed the document "Guidelines for Nuclear Deterrence and Nuclear Operations on the Korean Peninsula", which will significantly expand the allocation of Washington's strategic assets in the Northeast Asian ally to a "continuous" level.

This is a joint effort to ensure the credibility of the US commitment to South Korea on “extended deterrence” in a comprehensive manner, including Seoul’s conventional support for Washington’s nuclear operations in the event of an emergency.

Extended deterrence refers to the United States' commitment to mobilize the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear weapons, to defend its allies, while paving the way for allies to enhance their practical capabilities against nuclear threats through intelligence sharing, planning, training, and joint operations.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/muon-dua-vao-suc-manh-ran-de-cua-my-han-quoc-khang-dinh-khong-chon-so-huu-vu-khi-hat-nhan-279128.html