The North Korean nuclear threat compels established nuclear deterrence theories and policies to confront several “uncomfortable truths.” It has not only disrupted the global nuclear balance but also undermined the effectiveness of the traditional “balance of terror” model. The complete failure of diplomatic efforts to denuclearize North Korea underscores the limitations of revisionistc approaches as a viable solution. Nevertheless, abandoning the goal of North Korea’s denuclearization is not an option. In this context, establishing an on-site nuclear balance on the Korean Peninsula—beginning with the forward deployment of U.S. nuclear forces, including nuclear-armed submarines, and exploring mechanisms for nuclear sharing with allied states—should be the first step. At the same time, it is essential to foster a long-term security environment, supported by major powers and the United Nations, that assures North Korea of the regime’s survival without nuclear weapons.