South Korea rules out development of nuclear weapons

South Korea has reiterated its commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, dismissing the possibility of developing its own nuclear arsenal.

Defense Minister Shin Won-sik made this clear during his speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore, underscoring the nation's dedication to international non-proliferation norms and the strategic importance of its alliance with the United States, Caliber.Az reports.

"The development of nuclear weapons in South Korea will mean that we do not believe in the non-proliferation regime... We will not go down this path," Minister Shin asserted.

Minister Shin's remarks come amid ongoing regional tensions and North Korea's continued advancement of its nuclear capabilities. He emphasized that the most effective strategy to address North Korea's nuclear ambitions is to bolster and deepen ties with the United States.

The Shangri-La Dialogue, a significant platform for defence and security discussions in the Asia-Pacific region, provided an opportunity for South Korea to clarify its position on nuclear armament. Minister Shin's comments reinforce Seoul's reliance on diplomatic and strategic partnerships rather than pursuing an independent nuclear deterrent.

This stance aligns with South Korea's longstanding policy and international obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy.