The New York Times, in its edition of Nov. 14, reveals a new concern of the United States government, that the government of the Republic of Korea is secretly proceeding to achieve nuclear weapons. We have here an interesting situation, emblematic of the geopolitics of the next quarter century. The governments of South Korea and the United States have been very closely allied in the world arena since 1945, and of course especially since the Korean War. There could be many answers to such a question. One is obvious.
All countries always wish to strengthen their positions in the geopolitical arena.
But of course, to do so runs the risk of alienating a powerful ally and protector. Such a policy has costs. The costs must first appear to be worth it before a weaker country walks this path. Such a policy must necessarily be based on countering fears that are greater than that of displeasing the powerful patron. There are two fears that are clearly playing a role in the current situation.