Part 9/10:
From a strategic standpoint, South Korea’s move to acquire nuclear submarines with American support enhances its deterrent capability and signals a desire for greater strategic independence. Conversely, critics argue that it could undermine existing non-proliferation agreements and provoke neighboring powers, notably China and Russia, to respond with their own nuclear pursuits.
These developments could mark a turning point, altering the regional security architecture. Historically, when one power amasses nuclear capabilities, others tend to follow suit to maintain regional parity. The question remains whether this increased capability will lead to a safer deterrence or spiral into an arms race with unpredictable consequences.