Ex-U.S. General Expresses Doubts About South Korea’s Security with Nuclear Weapons

Seoul: A former U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) commander stated that he is not convinced that South Korea would achieve greater security by possessing its own nuclear weapons. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the possibility of South Korea developing a nuclear arsenal in response to escalating threats from North Korea.According to Yonhap News Agency, Vincent Brooks, who commanded the 28,500-strong USFK from 2016 to 2018, emphasized America's extended deterrence commitment, which aims to prevent the use of nuclear weapons rather than encourage their proliferation. The extended deterrence refers to the U.S.'s pledge to employ its comprehensive military capabilities, including nuclear weapons, to protect its allies.Brooks remarked, "I am not convinced that South Korea will be more secure by having nuclear weapons." He referenced historical instances of domestic unrest in Western European nations debating the presence of nuclear arms and U.S. nuclear systems on their soil, which led to increased domestic terrorism and decreased security.He further elaborated on the implications, stating that South Korea should carefully consider the potential consequences of developing nuclear capabilities. He noted that mirroring North Korea's actions might not enhance security simply to maintain parity or for symbolic reasons.Brooks also discussed the implications of North Korea's nuclear program, suggesting that while it serves as a deterrent, it also increases the risk of regime collapse. He warned that the use of nuclear weapons by North Korea would likely result in the regime's destruction, as consistently stated by various U.S. administrations.His comments were made in the context of uncertainties regarding the Trump administration's stance on the Nuclear Consultative Group, an essential body launched in 2023 to strengthen the U.S.'s extended deterrence credibility.A recent report by the Atlantic Council, a U.S.-based think tank, indicated that more than 40 percent of strategists and foresight practiti oners believe South Korea could possess nuclear weapons within the next decade. Additionally, almost a quarter anticipated that North Korea might use nuclear arms in the same period.