South Korea’s new submarines are rocking the boat of regional stability. On Tuesday, North Korea condemned a deal between Seoul and Washington, warning of a “nuclear domino” effect. The commentary described the move as a “dangerous attempt at confrontation,” suggesting that stability is at risk.
The deal was announced last week by President Lee Jae Myung. It allows South Korea to expand its authority over uranium enrichment and spent-fuel reprocessing. North Korea predicts this will spark a “hot arms race,” destabilizing the peninsula.
This threat to stability comes just one day after Seoul tried to steady the ship. President Lee proposed military talks to prevent border clashes, the first offer in seven years. However, the North views the submarines as the real source of instability.
The “nuclear domino” warning implies that the boat could capsize. North Korea is arguing that the South’s actions are reckless. This narrative challenges the South’s claim to be a stabilizing force.
North Korea has yet to respond to the offer for military talks. The focus on the threat suggests that the waters are rough. The region holds on tight.