The purpose of this study was to explore measures to strengthen nuclear deterrence on the Korean Peninsula through AI-based information innovation in response to North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile threats. This research examined the possibili...
The purpose of this study was to explore measures to strengthen nuclear deterrence on the Korean Peninsula through AI-based information innovation in response to North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile threats. This research examined the possibility of a new deterrence paradigm based on information technology superiority for the Republic of Korea, a non-nuclear state, to achieve effective nuclear deterrence.
Since adopting the Nuclear Forces Policy Law in 2022, North Korea has officially declared the possibility of preemptive use of nuclear weapons and has been advancing its nuclear threats through tactical nuclear development and acquisition of various delivery systems. In particular, North Korea has developed diverse delivery means including mobile launcher (TEL)-based solid-fuel missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and hypersonic glide vehicles, making detection and response increasingly difficult with existing surveillance and reconnaissance systems. Under the recognition that traditional deterrence theory alone cannot effectively respond to North Korea's nuclear threats, this study sought measures to strengthen deterrence through a new approach of AI-based information innovation.
First, this study proposed measures for advancing AI-based surveillance and reconnaissance systems. The key lies in developing customized AI models reflecting North Korea's geographical and climatic characteristics and military activity patterns. Specifically, this study proposed an integrated surveillance system based on multi-sensor fusion that analyzes various sensor data including electro-optical (EO), infrared (IR), synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and signals intelligence (SIGINT) in real-time. Additionally, this study proposed satellite imagery automatic target detection systems utilizing verified deep learning algorithms such as YOLOv3, DFAN, and SINetV2, camouflage facility identification technology based on Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN), and launch pattern analysis and trajectory prediction systems using LSTM networks. Referring to benchmarks from prior empirical studies, the YOLOv3 algorithm achieved 94.87% detection accuracy and 177-191 millisecond processing time, demonstrating suitable performance for real-time surveillance. If successfully implemented, significant improvements in detection accuracy and response time are expected.
Second, this study derived measures to maximize deterrence effects based on information innovation. The core components include strengthening ROK-US information sharing and combined surveillance systems, linking the Kill Chain system with AI surveillance and reconnaissance, and deterrence communication strategies. Notably, this study introduced the concept of 'Predictive Deterrence.' Predictive Deterrence is a strategic concept that detects and predicts enemy provocation indicators in advance through AI-based real-time surveillance and reconnaissance, achieving deterrence effects before the execution of provocations. While existing denial and punishment deterrence operates 'when provocations occur,' Predictive Deterrence operates 'before provocations occur,' reducing the possibility of provocations themselves. To this end, this study proposed strengthening the role of the ROK-US Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG), establishing a real-time combined information sharing platform, and introducing a reliability indication system for AI analysis results. Furthermore, this study systematized deterrence communication strategies through selective disclosure of information innovation capabilities to maximize psychological pressure effects on North Korea.
Third, this study presented AI defense governance and ethical-safety principles. This study proposed measures to ensure responsible operation of AI-based defense systems through establishing dual-use technology management systems, establishing Human-in-the-Loop principles, and installing AI ethics committees. Particularly, the importance of securing AI system explainability and establishing emergency manual override systems was emphasized.
Fourth, this study confirmed the necessity of personnel training and technology development investment. Human and technological foundations are essential for the successful implementation of AI-based information innovation. For cultivating AI-defense convergence professionals, this study proposed expanding defense AI educational institutions and introducing civilian-military cooperation-based personnel rotation programs. Additionally, this study presented the need to introduce open innovation paradigms to defense R&D through building civilian-military-industry-academia cooperation systems and strengthening long-term basic research cooperation with universities. For core technology self-reliance, this study emphasized the need for concentrated investment in areas with high foreign dependency such as high-performance AI processors, satellite image analysis software, and signal intelligence analysis systems.
The key contributions of this study are the proposal of the 'Predictive Deterrence' concept and the systematization of information innovation-based deterrence mechanisms. The new paradigm of achieving deterrence effects before provocations occur through AI-based preemptive detection complements existing deterrence strategies. However, for the measures proposed in this study to be effective, technological feasibility must be empirically verified, sufficient human and material investment must be made, and institutional support at the ROK-US alliance level must be established. Future research tasks include building empirical data and performance verification, measures to secure AI system reliability and robustness, and analysis of North Korea's response strategies and scenario research.