South Korea must develop nuclear weapons to deter North Korea's aggression

South Korea faces an escalating threat from North Korea, which continues to enhance its nuclear arsenal, including the development of advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles such as the Hwasong-17. Historically, South Korea has relied on U.S. security guarantees, but with Washington's commitment increasingly uncertain, especially in light of U.S.-South Korea trade tensions, the necessity for a robust self-defense strategy has emerged. Current missile defense systems in South Korea, including the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and the KM-SAM, are not sufficient to counter the advanced and multiple-launch capabilities of North Korea's missiles. The THAAD system, while capable of intercepting incoming missiles, lacks the necessary quantity of interceptors to be effective against a potential barrage of nuclear missiles. South Korea has also developed the KM-SAM, a medium-range missile system, which faces deployment challenges and delays in its full operational capacity. In addition, the U.S. has historically prevented South Korea from developing its own nuclear arsenal, an approach that has come under scrutiny given the changing global dynamics and increasing North Korean aggressiveness. The current geopolitical situation warrants a reassessment of South Korea's defense policies. Analysts suggest that Seoul needs to establish an independent deterrent in the form of nuclear weapons to maintain regional stability and safeguard its autonomy against the persistent and evolving threats posed by Pyongyang. Such a shift could signal a new phase in South Korea's defense strategy and would mark a significant departure from its longstanding reliance on U.S. military support. As South Korea navigates these complex challenges, the urgency of developing a nuclear deterrent has become clear. With North Korea's capabilities growing and potential U.S. disengagement looming, South Korea must act swiftly to create a credible defense that protects its sovereignty and interests in an increasingly unstable environment.