US-ROK Military Authorities "Consulting on Preparations for North Korean Nuclear Test"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu, Military Specialist Reporter]In preparation for North Korea's resumption of nuclear tests, the South Korea-US military authorities are reportedly keeping all possibilities open and closely coordinating countermeasures.

On the 28th, a military official, during a meeting with reporters, was asked how they would respond if North Korea proceeds with a nuclear test. The official said, "South Korea and the US are closely coordinating response plans and options," adding, "We are reviewing various conditions to decide which measures to implement."

A Ministry of National Defense official also stated, "Our position is to keep all possibilities open in response, and deterrence is the most important factor. From that perspective, the South Korea-US authorities are examining which measures would be most effective."

North Korea is carrying out restoration work at the Punggye-ri nuclear test site in Kilju County, North Hamgyong Province, which was demolished four years ago, raising the possibility of a nuclear test in the near future.

If North Korea undertakes additional strategic provocations such as nuclear tests, the military authorities may conduct missile live-fire drills or large-scale shows of force jointly with the US or independently.

In particular, there is speculation that the US may deploy strategic assets such as B-52H long-range bombers or B-1B strategic bombers to the Korean Peninsula to demonstrate military power if North Korea resumes nuclear testing.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.