Reassessing North Korea’s Nuclear Threat after the 3^rd Nuclear Test

The session will reassess North Korea’s nuclear capability and threat since the launching of the Eunha-3, in December 2012 and the third nuclear test on February 12, 2013. The rocket is believed to have a range of 10,000 km, which puts Los Angeles and the entire West Coast of the United States in reach. Last week, North Korea conducted a third nuclear test. This panel will discuss North Korea’s missile and nuclear weapon capability, the need for international cooperation to restrain North Korea from carrying out further actions, and potential follow-ups after North Korea’s nuclear test.

ROK, China and Japan as Responsible Nuclear Suppliers

Although the Fukushima accident forced many countries to reassess their national nuclear policies, many Asian and Middle Eastern countries continue to have strong interest in nuclear energy as they view it as a sustainable energy source for economic development. With the recent accident, it is vital that countries that are involved in developing peaceful nuclear energy programs and supplying nuclear power plant technology take responsibility for nuclear safety and security aspects of these programs. As responsible nuclear suppliers they should seek to provide technology that is safe, reliable, and proliferation resistant. They should also seek to provide training and knowledge that will help prevent nuclear disasters and deter nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism. This panel will evaluate the changes of the global nuclear market and also address the safety and security concerns associated with the prospect of the growing number of nuclear export by Northeast Asian countries.

Building Public Confidence in Nuclear Safety

Public support for nuclear energy is essential in order to construct and operate nuclear power plants. Although the general public support for nuclear energy has maintained the same relative level in recent years, it seems that public confidence in nuclear safety is very weak. To build public confidence, it is vital to keep the public better informed, provide clear information in times of crisis, and maintain high levels of communication and coordination between various organizations and government agencies directly involved with nuclear energy programs. This panel will explore numerous approaches to restore public confidence and credibility in nuclear safety.