South Korean National Assembly Member Joo Ho-young, who also leads the People Power Party (conservative) has called for a nuclear weapons sharing program with the United States. He said that “nuclear weapons can only be suppressed by nuclear weapons”. Here is the transcript of his statement to the press:

“The NATO-style nuclear sharing plan recognizes North Korea’s nuclear possession, so it is not yet highly likely, but if North Korea goes ahead with its 7th nuclear test, this plan will also need to be considered.

North Korea is launching missiles every day while the US and South Korea are conducting military exercises. There are also observations that a 7th nuclear test may be carried out.

Amidst this, the US 11th Carrier Strike Group, including the aircraft carrier Nimitz, a key US strategic weapon, will enter the Busan operational base today.

Furthermore, ahead of President Yoon Seok-yeol’s state visit to the United States, a NATO-style nuclear sharing plan is being discussed following the redeployment of tactical nuclear weapons in the face of North Korea’s nuclear missile provocation.

In a situation where North Korea’s missile technology is advancing day by day and missiles are being launched every day, if North Korea even conducts a nuclear test, we can no longer just respond with words.

Even if it is not the case, public opinion that we must possess nuclear weapons is rising more than ever in relation to responding to North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats. I think that this clear policy will faithfully play a deterrence role against nuclear provocations.”