Japan debates nuclear policy amid China and North Korea tensions

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is reconsidering the country's decades-old non-nuclear principles as regional threats intensify. Rising tensions with China over Taiwan and ongoing missile tests by North Korea have renewed discussions about Japan’s security stance.

Growing regional pressure

Analysts note that China’s expanding naval presence and North Korea’s advancing missile technology have heightened Japan’s sense of vulnerability. Recent incidents near Taiwan have reinforced concerns about potential conflict involving Japan.

Domestic opposition

Many Japanese citizens strongly oppose any move toward nuclear armament. Japan’s pacifist constitution and the lasting trauma of Hiroshima and Nagasaki continue to shape public opinion. Critics warn that reversing the non-nuclear principles would undermine Japan’s moral authority and security diplomacy.

Government position

While some LDP lawmakers argue Japan must consider all options to ensure national defense, the government maintains that no immediate policy change is planned. Discussions are framed as part of a broader debate on deterrence and alliance coordination with the United States.

“Japan must face new security realities, but it also bears unique responsibility as the only country to have suffered nuclear attacks,” said a senior LDP member.

Author’s summary: Japan faces a heated national debate over revising its non-nuclear stance as threats from China and North Korea sharpen its security challenges.

DW — 2025-11-25