Report outlines South Korea nuclear command strategy framework

April 27 (Asia Today) -- A South Korean policy report has proposed a comprehensive framework for nuclear strategy and command-and-control, arguing that Seoul must prepare for potential nuclear scenarios amid growing regional threats.

The study, published by the Korea Nuclear Security Strategy Forum, presents what it describes as a "grand design" for South Korea's nuclear strategy, moving beyond abstract debate toward a structured national security approach.

Titled "Korea's Nuclear Security Project 3," the report examines how South Korea could develop a nuclear command, control and communications system, often referred to as NC3, in response to North Korea's advancing nuclear capabilities and shifting regional power dynamics.

Dual threat environment highlighted

The report warns of a "dual crisis" facing South Korea: the rapid advancement of North Korea's nuclear arsenal and a perceived decline in U.S. military dominance in the Western Pacific.

It cites analyses from institutions such as the RAND Corporation and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, which suggest the U.S. military advantage over China has narrowed significantly in recent years.

The report argues that this shift could weaken confidence in extended deterrence, commonly known as the U.S. nuclear umbrella over South Korea.

Lessons from global nuclear powers

To identify potential policy directions, the study examines nuclear strategies and command systems of major nuclear states, including the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom and France.

It highlights the U.S. model of centralized presidential authority under a deterrence doctrine based on mutually assured destruction, as well as Russia's emphasis on survivability and automated retaliation systems.

The report also notes China's transition from a "minimum deterrence" posture toward a more expansive nuclear strategy, alongside the strategic autonomy pursued by countries such as Israel and France.

'Calculated ambiguity' proposed

The report recommends that South Korea adopt a strategy combining "credible minimum deterrence" with "calculated ambiguity," avoiding overly specific conditions for nuclear use while maintaining deterrence.

It also calls for integrating nuclear and conventional forces and designing a flexible command structure. Under the proposal, strong centralized control would be maintained in peacetime, while limited and conditional delegation could be allowed during crises to ensure rapid response capability.

The authors argue that any future nuclear capability should serve as a deterrent to prevent war rather than a tool for conducting it, framing it as part of a broader strategic alliance approach.

Strategic debate intensifies

The publication comes as debate grows in South Korea over how to respond to North Korea's nuclear policy and evolving geopolitical risks.

Contributors to the report include former diplomat Lee Jung-kyu, professor Song Seung-jong of Daejeon University and researcher Cho Bi-yeon of the Sejong Institute.

The authors stress that preparation is essential for informed decision-making in national security.

"An unprepared choice is a gamble, but a prepared choice becomes a strategy," the report states.

-- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260427010008603

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This story was originally published April 27, 2026 at 8:41 PM.