On 22 October 2025, Open Nuclear Network (ONN), the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) and Global Neighbours hosted an in-person seminar titled “Navigating Nuclear Risks on the Korean Peninsula.” The event examined political developments within the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the implications of DPRK's advancing nuclear capabilities.
The seminar began with remarks from Professor Dr. Xuewu Gu, Chair Professor at the University of Bonn and Global Neighbours Advisory Board Member, and Laura Rockwood, Senior Fellow at the VCDNP and ONN Advisory Council Member. The session was moderated by Elena K. Sokova, Executive Director of the VCDNP. The keynote speaker was Professor Moon Chung-in, Professor Emeritus at Yonsei University, former Advisor to the President of the ROK and ONN Advisory Council Member.
Professor Moon highlighted the internal political challenges facing the ROK, including recent governance crises and growing public polarisation. He emphasised how these domestic shifts shape Seoul’s national security debates. He also outlined the increasing risks posed by North Korea’s expanding nuclear weapons programme, noting that the strategic environment has been further complicated by geopolitical developments globally and in the region. Professor Moon discussed the changing public discourse around potential nuclear weapons development in the ROK. Although a growing minority advocates re-evaluating the nuclear option, he stressed that most policymakers and the public remain opposed, a position reinforced by President Lee’s steadfast anti-nuclear stance and commitment to reducing inter-Korean tensions. In closing, Professor Moon underscored the need for renewed diplomatic engagement, multilateral cooperation and practical risk-reduction measures to prevent escalation and support regional stability.
