South Koreans Favor Independent Nuclear Armament, Wartime Control: Poll

A significant majority of South Koreans support independent nuclear armament and regaining wartime operational control, according to a recent poll published in the bimonthly magazine 'Sisa Journal'. The survey, conducted by Embrain Research & Survey from May 8-12 among 1,000 adults, found that 80.3% agreed with the return of wartime operational control, with 40.6% strongly agreeing. Furthermore, 83.5% of respondents favored South Korea developing its own nuclear weapons capability.

The poll also highlighted public sentiment regarding external security assurances. Only 24.5% of respondents expressed trust in the U.S. nuclear umbrella, with 77.0% stating they do not trust the security alliance under a potential Trump administration. This indicates a growing desire for self-reliance in national defense.

Additionally, 76.3% of South Koreans agreed with the government's initiative to acquire nuclear-powered submarines. When asked about the most crucial conditions for securing wartime operational control, respondents prioritized "securing independent reconnaissance and military satellite capabilities" (26.5%), followed by "maintaining and strengthening the robust ROK-U.S. alliance and the presence of U.S. Forces Korea" (18.1%).

Jang Won, editor of 'Sisa Journal', noted that the results reflect the public's strong belief in self-defense and strengthening independent defense capabilities. The magazine itself was revived last year after being shut down by the Park Chung-hee regime in 1970.

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The results show that ordinary citizens believe self-defense and strengthening independent defense capabilities are very important.