South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Affirms Nuclear Deterrence Without Nuclear Armament
President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea has underscored his country’s commitment to a nuclear-free security posture, emphasizing that South Korea has established a robust system to counter North Korean nuclear threats without pursuing its own nuclear armament. In an exclusive interview published in the Czech newspaper Hospodářské noviny on September 20, the president highlighted the role of the Korea-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group in enhancing deterrence against North Korean aggression.
South Korea’s Stance on Nuclear Deterrence
Yoon’s comments came in response to questions about South Korea’s consideration of developing its own nuclear capabilities. The president affirmed that the nation views strengthening its indigenous defense capabilities and enhancing the effectiveness of the extended deterrence provided by the U.S.-South Korea alliance as the optimal solution to North Korean nuclear threats. He cited the signing of the Washington Declaration during his state visit to the United States in April 2022, which led to the establishment of the Korea-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group.
Collaboration with the U.S. on Nuclear Consultation
Yoon detailed that the group has not only been involved in the joint development of nuclear operational guidelines but is also actively working to implement these guidelines by integrating nuclear and conventional forces. This integration, according to Yoon, bolsters South Korea’s ability to counter North Korean nuclear threats without the need for autonomous nuclear armament.
Trilateral Cooperation with the U.S. and Japan
Regarding trilateral cooperation with the U.S. and Japan, Yoon highlighted the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. Building on the outcomes of the Camp David summit in August 2022, the three nations have been actively enhancing their cooperative mechanisms. Yoon expressed a commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation among the three countries, in addition to their trilateral efforts.
Economic Impact of Sanctions on Russia
When queried about the impact of sanctions on Russia on South Korea’s economy, Yoon acknowledged that the war in Ukraine had led to a significant reduction in trade between South Korea and Russia, causing difficulties for South Korean businesses. However, he maintained that South Korea, as a responsible member of the international community, will continue to uphold world peace in concert with the global community.
Nuclear Energy Policy
Yoon discussed South Korea’s nuclear energy policy, emphasizing the reversal of the previous administration’s nuclear phase-out policy. He mentioned the resumption of new nuclear power plant construction, the continued operation of existing nuclear power plants, the nurturing of nuclear talent, and the development of small modular reactor technology. The president highlighted the approval of the construction of Shin Kori 3 and 4 nuclear reactors after an eight-year hiatus as a milestone in the complete revival of the nuclear ecosystem.
Bilateral Economic Cooperation with the Czech Republic
Yoon expressed a desire to expand bilateral economic cooperation with the Czech Republic in high-tech industries such as batteries, advanced robotics, and future automobiles. He noted the signing of the Trade and Investment Promotion Framework (TIPF) during his visit, which would provide institutional support for enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries. Yoon also mentioned the intention to establish government-to-government working dialogue channels for effective communication and collaboration.
Conclusion
Yoon’s remarks during his official visit to the Czech Republic reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to a nuclear-free defense strategy, enhanced through the Korea-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group and strengthened alliances with the United States and Japan. The president’s stance reflects a broader strategic vision aimed at maintaining regional peace and security while simultaneously promoting economic growth and cooperation with key partners.
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