Proliferation Question in Asia

Examining the growing support for nuclear armament in the region amidst global uncertainty and threats

North Korea's unchecked nuclear buildup, China's growing nuclear arsenal, and uncertainty about Trump’s commitment to Indo-Pacific defense has led to a groundswell of calls for nuclearization in Asia. 

This project is made possible with general support from CSIS.

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Why Young South Koreans Are Cooling on the Bomb

While many older South Koreans support nuclear armament, younger generations, the ones who will actually live with the consequences, do not share that view and see them as optional and potentially counterproductive.

Newsletter by James D. Kim — April 28, 2025

How China Views South Korea’s Nuclear Debate

How does China perceive South Korea’s nuclear ambitions? To what extent—and why—do the Chinese worry about it? And what are the policy implications of China’s perspective for the U.S.-South Korea alliance?

Newsletter by Sungmin Cho — April 8, 2025

Will South Korea’s Nuclear Ambitions Subside in the Next Five Years?

The incoming South Korean administration will confront significant challenges, and one of the most pressing concerns will be addressing North Korea’s nuclear threats amid growing uncertainty over U.S. security commitments under the second Trump administration. 

Newsletter by Lami Kim — April 7, 2025