Nuclear Armament Discourse in the Republic of Korea
Jung Yeon-Je/AFP via Getty Images

Nuclear Armament Discourse in the Republic of Korea

Roundtable with Mark Fitzpatrick, James E. Platte, and Seukhoon Paul Choi
March 31, 2023

The nuclear armament discourse in the Republic of Korea (ROK) has evolved significantly in recent years. Analysts widely acknowledge the deteriorating security environment and questions about the credibility of the U.S. extended deterrent as factors driving this discourse. Others posit that domestic politics and nationalism are also important drivers. The discourse in South Korea holds profound implications for U.S. interests, including the future of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, the U.S.-ROK civil nuclear energy agreement, and the U.S.-ROK alliance more generally. This roundtable brings together three experts to assess the drivers and implications of the current debate and consider options for how Congress can respond.