Seoul estimates North Korea holds up to 120 nuclear warheads

South Korea's defense establishment has assessed that North Korea possesses between 100 and 120 nuclear warheads, according to official sources in Seoul. The estimate substantially exceeds earlier publicly stated figures and represents an unusual willingness by South Korean authorities to provide specific numbers regarding the North's weapons program.

The disclosure comes amid heightened regional tensions and reflects growing international concern about Pyongyang's accelerating nuclear and missile capabilities. South Korea's intelligence agencies have traditionally maintained confidentiality around detailed assessments of North Korea's atomic arsenal, making the current assessment noteworthy for its specificity and public nature.

The figure has implications for regional security planning and diplomatic negotiations in Northeast Asia. Seoul's revised estimate underscores the scope of North Korea's weapons development program, which has advanced considerably over the past decade despite international sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

Regional analysts noted that the assessment may influence defense spending decisions and alliance strategies among countries in the region, particularly as discussions continue regarding North Korea's denuclearization and the balance of power on the Korean Peninsula.