South Korea and the U.S. to Establish Nuclear Strategy Planning and Operation Guidelines (Comprehensive)

Completion by mid-next year
Establishment of Integrated Extended Deterrence System
Kim Tae-hyo, First Deputy Director of National Security Office
"Can Raise Nuclear IQ"

The Republic of Korea and the United States have agreed to create guidelines on nuclear strategy planning and operations by mid-next year, through which they will establish an integrated extended deterrence (nuclear umbrella) system. The guidelines will serve as a kind of North Korean nuclear response directive, containing measures to deter North Korea's nuclear threats.

Kim Tae-hyo, First Deputy Director of the National Security Office, announced this during a press briefing following the 2nd Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) meeting held in Washington DC on the 15th (local time). Regarding the guidelines, Kim said, "They will comprehensively cover issues such as how the two countries will share sensitive nuclear-related information, how to establish security systems, the consultation procedures and systems during a nuclear crisis, and how to build secure infrastructure and operate real-time communication channels between the two heads of state."

Regarding the combination of U.S. nuclear forces and South Korea's non-nuclear forces, he stated, "We are continuously specifying the concept of integrating and operating nuclear and non-nuclear forces applicable to the Korean Peninsula to the extent that joint operations can be conducted." Kim also said, "Specific plans on how to manage and reduce risks in the event of a North Korean nuclear threat are being detailed and will be included in the guidelines."

On the U.S. education related to nuclear strategy and planning for Korean government officials, he said, "The United States has decided to operate an advanced nuclear education program for our side next year as well," adding, "If this happens, it can be said that the nuclear-related knowledge and practical capabilities of our nuclear policy officials will be cultivated."

He emphasized, "Our side's 'nuclear IQ' can continue to rise." He also said, "The NCG meeting approved the work plan for the next six months," and added, "Through the NCG, the ROK-U.S. will move toward an integrated extended deterrence system."

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