Pyongyang Tests the Balance of Power

The nuclear test by North Korea on Monday, following an earlier 31 months ago, occurred not only on Memorial Day in the United States but during mourning in South Korea for former President Roh Moo-hyun, who committed suicide. The explosion has also been accompanied by missile tests.

This latest move in the long story of provocation by the communist regime is cause for very serious concern. Last month, after great public fanfare, Pyongyang test launched a missile.

The Taepodong 2 missile fell into the ocean after passing over Japan. The device dubbed ``Unha-2" was an improved version of one tested on July 4, 2006 ― Independence Day in the U.S.

Those on the front line of diplomacy most directly affected by these tests ― in particular South Korea, Japan and the United States ― have reacted with public protest but military restraint. Significantly, North Korea's ally China has also condemned this latest nuclear test, along with Russia.