South Korea Rejects U.S. Defense Nominee's 'Nuclear Power' Label for North Korea

Pete Hegseth's comments during his confirmation hearing draw criticism from Seoul, highlighting diplomatic tensions over North Korea's nuclear status.

• U.S. defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth referred to North Korea as a 'nuclear power' in a written response to the Senate Armed Services Committee, raising concerns in South Korea.
• South Korea's foreign ministry rejected the characterization, emphasizing that North Korea cannot be recognized as a nuclear-armed state under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
• Hegseth described North Korea's nuclear arsenal and missile programs as significant threats to regional and global stability, advocating for enhanced missile defense systems.
• The Biden administration reaffirmed its stance of not recognizing North Korea as a nuclear power, with National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby reiterating the U.S.'s commitment to denuclearization efforts.
• The controversy comes as public opinion in South Korea increasingly supports the development of its own nuclear weapons, with 61% favoring such measures in response to North Korea's growing capabilities.

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USA TODAY Newsweek South China Morning Post