Sansad TV: Perspective- North Korea’s Nuclear Threat | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, has officially declared itself a nuclear weapons state, emphasizing the irreversibility of this status and rejecting any negotiations. Kim Jong Un accused the United States of seeking to weaken North Korea's defenses and destabilize its government. The newly passed legislation includes a provision mandating automatic nuclear strikes against enemy forces if the country's leadership comes under attack. Recent weapons tests, including the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile, have raised concerns, with warnings from Washington and South Korea about a potential seventh nuclear test.

North Korea's Threats

Over the years, North Korea has consistently employed aggressive rhetoric towards perceived enemies. Instances include threats to turn Seoul into "a sea of fire" in 1994 and a vow to "mercilessly wipe out the aggressors" after being labeled part of the "axis of evil" by US President George W Bush in 2002. The nation has repeatedly emphasized its military capabilities and readiness for conflict.

Reasons for Such Policy

North Korea's nuclear capabilities serve as a core strength, allowing the nation to assert itself against more powerful global entities. Adopting a two-pronged strategy, the country fast-tracked its missile and nuclear programs while expressing a willingness to negotiate. The regime resists perceived US hegemony, using its nuclear strengths to counterbalance power dynamics. Economic damage from harsh sanctions has pushed North Korea towards more assertive policies. The lack of public involvement in state affairs allows a select group to make critical decisions.

International Perspective

Against the backdrop of the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and a reassessment of regional security, North Korea aims to underscore its significance in US regional security concerns. The nation's focus on military development and the perceived threats it poses to neighbors and the international community is highlighted. The regime seeks recognition as a legitimate nuclear state and desires diplomatic relations with the US.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the devastation of the Second World War's nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the world bears the responsibility to monitor and control the nuclear arsenals of nations. The United Nations must play a leading role in this effort. Universal ratification of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) is crucial. The morally superior alternative, the UN treaty on the complete abolition of atomic arms, faced boycotts by nuclear weapon states, emphasizing the ongoing challenges in achieving global disarmament.