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South Korean Defense Minister estimates North Korea possesses 80-120 nuclear weapons
๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Conflict & Security

South Korean Defense Minister estimates North Korea possesses 80-120 nuclear weapons

From Dong-A Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Kyu-baek stated that North Korea is estimated to possess 80 to 120 nuclear weapons.
  • Ahn emphasized that discussing precise figures is restricted due to security concerns.
  • The statement was made during a period of heightened regional tensions and ongoing discussions about North Korea's nuclear capabilities.

South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Kyu-baek has estimated that North Korea likely possesses between 80 and 120 nuclear weapons. The minister made these remarks while acknowledging the sensitive nature of discussing exact figures, citing security limitations.

This assessment comes amid persistent concerns over Pyongyang's advancing nuclear and missile programs. While Ahn did not provide specific details on the types or readiness of these weapons, the estimate offers a quantifiable perspective on the scale of North Korea's nuclear arsenal as perceived by Seoul's defense establishment.

The South Korean government has consistently monitored North Korea's military activities and nuclear development. Ahn's statement underscores the ongoing strategic challenges posed by Pyongyang's capabilities and reinforces the need for continued vigilance and diplomatic efforts in the region.

North Korea's nuclear weapons are generally seen as between 80 to 120... precise figures are restricted.

โ€” Ahn Kyu-baekSouth Korean Defense Minister Ahn Kyu-baek's statement on North Korea's estimated nuclear arsenal.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.