North Korea has been the subject of much debate and frustration for years on end. Kim Jong-Un frequently sees fit to threaten anyone who would dare stand against him. This has led to high tensions between not only North Korea and Japan but also North Korea and Japan. Over the last few years, Kim Jong-Un has made many mentions of nuclear weapons. Obviously, this has caused distress among many in neighboring countries. The dictator claimed late last year that North Korea would become the world's "most powerful strategic force." While that is unlikely, Kim has shown many signs of instability and a very short temper. Today, there was yet another reminder of this as North Korea fired a missile near Japan.
At approximately 7:23 AM, the country fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile from somewhere near Pyongyang. This comes just after Kim Jong-Un made comments about strengthening North Korea's war deterrence. He told military leaders that they must act in a more "practical and offensive" way. The firing of the missile led to chaos. The Japanese government sent out an order for residents of Hokkaido to take cover. Luckily, the missile did not land in Japanese territory. However, the South Korean military is now on high alert. They are working closely with the United States to continue to monitor the situation.
North Korea's History Of Threatening Behavior
North Korea has made many moves in recent years that could be considered threatening. Today's missile launch is not the first of its kind, and it certainly won't be the last given Kim's history. In addition to threatening behavior, North Korea has also made extremely straightforward threats. Recently, the country enacted a new law. It states that nuclear weapons will immediately be launched in the event of an attack on their leader, Kim.
While the US has been mainly focused on denuclearization, Kim has stated clearly that he has no intention of complying. Addressing the country via the state media, Kim said, "(We will) never give up nuclear weapons and there is absolutely no denuclearization, and no negotiation and no bargaining chip to trade in the process." With statements like these, it looks like a conflict may be inevitable. What do you think of the situation? Is there a way to avoid conflict? Let us know in the comments.
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