2009-05-25

North Korea nuclear tests

North Korea has detonated a second nuclear warhead:

The North’s official news agency, KCNA, said “The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea successfully conducted one more underground nuclear test on May 25 as part of the measures to bolster up its nuclear deterrent for self-defense in every way as requested by its scientists and technicians.”

The test was safely conducted “on a new higher level in terms of its explosive power and technology of its control,” the agency said. “The results of the test helped satisfactorily settle the scientific and technological problems arising in further increasing the power of nuclear weapons and steadily developing nuclear technology.”

Word of the test sent a shudder through Asian financial markets and clearly caught South Korea off guard. The news hit just as South Korea’s government and people were mourning the suicide of former President Roh Moo-hyun.

The test also came against a backdrop of uncertainty about North Korea’s reclusive leader, Kim Jong-il and speculation about who might succeed him. Mr. Kim suffered a stroke last August, which prompted him to step up preparations to transfer power to one of his three known sons. Analysts believe the favorite son is his youngest, Kim Jong-un, who is in his mid-20s.
So, er, how's that new President working out for you guys?

With this North Korean news, its perhaps time to remember Kim Jong Il vs. Hans Blix on Team America: World Police: