Most interesting is the suggestion that united Korea would benefit from the North's nuclear weapons.

Pyongyang must continue its nuclear tests if it wants to develop a nuclear missile capability.

Although untested, these missile systems could enable Pyongyang to launch surprise attacks.

Financial and political constraints will make it harder for many governments to maintain balance in the coming months.

Pyongyang means to force Washington and Seoul into negotiations.

Pyongyang is declaring a return to a state of open hostilities.

Each test leaves Chinese policy toward North Korea more and more in doubt.

Pyongyang is keeping its nuclear missile program seemingly viable but ambiguous.

China's rise and favorable public opinion are leading Japan toward officially normalizing its military.

The launch caught many observers off guard.