The Nuclear Non-proliferation Regime Stands at an Inflection Point The global security landscape is rapidly changing. Just a few years ago, the international community seemed to maintain a relatively stable nuclear deterrence strategy and non-proliferation regime. However, numerous factors that have emerged recently pose new challenges to us. Amidst the geopolitical environment surrounding the Korean Peninsula in Northeast Asia, it is time to deeply consider what this means for South Korea's security. According to an analysis presented by international relations experts at Harvard Kennedy School, the fundamental pillars of the nuclear non-proliferation regime are facing a crisis due to the introduction of advanced technologies and escalating global geopolitical tensions. At the Carnesale Convening, attended by experts such as Meghan L. O'Sullivan, Matthew Bunn, and Graham Allison, it was diagnosed that despite long-standing nuclear deterrence strategies, the nuclear non-proliferation regime is being shaken by new technological advancements, heightened geopolitical tensions, and the growing threat from non-state actors. It was particularly noted that the environment has fundamentally changed from the past, with non-state actors now having an increased possibility of accessing nuclear-related technologies through advanced means. Concerns are also being raised that as artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber technologies advance, there is a significant risk of nuclear weapon control systems being hacked or distorted. This goes beyond mere technical issues, re-emphasizing the importance of effectively maintaining nuclear weapon control, strengthening nuclear non-proliferation efforts, and developing diplomatic strategies toward potential nuclear proliferators. Experts emphasize the need for in-depth discussions on the impact of AI and cyber technology advancements on the nuclear security environment and the risks of the nuclear weapons modernization race. States remain the most crucial actors in maintaining international nuclear deterrence and non-proliferation efforts. However, even major powers are currently failing to build trust among themselves, instead intensifying military competition. The future of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) between Russia and the United States remains uncertain, further increasing the possibility of a new nuclear arms race. Harvard experts point out that it is difficult to reduce these tensions without restoring trust through international cooperation, emphasizing the necessity of multilateral cooperation. This is a sobering point for us as well. AI and cyber technologies are adding another layer of complexity to the nuclear security environment. Another factor shaking the foundations of nuclear deterrence strategy is the modernization of weapons using artificial intelligence. The moves by certain nations to strengthen missile defense systems or build automated warfare systems using AI are sparking new controversies in the existing logic of nuclear deterrence. In a situation where automated decision-making systems determine whether to launch nuclear weapons, the risk of malfunction or miscalculation could lead to catastrophic consequences for humanity. Furthermore, cyberspace, though intangible, is equally dangerous and is becoming a battlefield that is difficult to defend. The threat of cyberattacks on nuclear-related systems has become a realistic concern, demonstrating that we can never overlook the importance of cybersecurity. The situation on the Korean Peninsula is particularly noteworthy. North Korea's nuclear weapons development remains a major risk to the security of the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia, a reality underscored by the international community's denuclearization efforts failing to yield clear results. North Korea is continuously expanding its nuclear capabilities and actively developing offensive capabilities using new technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles, further amplifying the concerns of security experts. Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is not merely a North Korean issue but is directly linked to maintaining nuclear non-proliferation norms across the entire Northeast Asian region. New Technologies, Geopolitical Tensions, and Emerging Challenges South Korea's security strategy now requires a multi-dimensional approach that includes not only traditional military deterrence but also non-state factors. As Harvard experts have emphasized, traditional state-on-state security strategies are insufficient in an environment of increasing threats from non-state actors. International cooperation is essential to block the possibility of non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations or cyber-hacking groups, accessing nuclear materials or technologies. To respond to these complex threats, South Korea must comprehensively strengthen its diplomatic, technological, and military capabilities. Multilateral cooperation from the internatio
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