Examine individual changes

'{{Current|date=May 2009}} {{Infobox Military Test Site | name = North Korean nuclear test | image = [[File:2009 North Korean nuclear test.png|300px]] | caption = Graphic from the [[United States Geological Survey]] showing the location of seismic activity at the time of the test | type = [[Nuclear testing|Nuclear test]] site | coordinates = {{coord|41.306|N|129.029|E|type:event_region:KP}}<ref name="USGS" /> | nearest_town = [[Kilchu]] | operator = [[North Korea]] | status = Unknown | dates = 25 May 2009, 00:54:43 UTC<ref name="USGS" /> }} The '''2009 North Korean nuclear test''' was the [[underground nuclear testing|underground detonation]] of a [[nuclear device]] conducted on 25 May 2009 by [[North Korea]].<ref name="bbc">[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8066615.stm North Korea conducts nuclear test]. [[BBC]]. 25 May 2009.</ref> This was its second nuclear test, the [[2006 North Korean nuclear test|first test]] having taken place in October 2006.<ref name="yonhap">Kim, Sam. [http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2009/05/25/72/0301000000AEN20090525004400315F.HTML N. Korea appears to have conducted nuclear test: source]. Yonhap New Agency. 2009/05/25.</ref> Following the nuclear test, Pyongyang also conducted several missile tests. The test was nearly universally condemned by the [[international community]]. ==Background== {{DPRK WMD}} {{main|North Korea and weapons of mass destruction}} North Korea (officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, or DPRK) had threatened to conduct a second nuclear test in protest after the [[United Nations Security Council]] adopted a [[presidential statement]] condemning the country after it launched a rocket, which it claimed was carrying the [[Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2]] satellite, on 5 April 2009.<ref name="afp">{{cite news|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jntKjLG2Y9N0a8MuIY8O__cOnWbQ|author=Jun Kwanwoo|title=World fury at North Korea nuclear test|publisher=AFP|date=2009-05-24|accessdate=2009-05-24}}</ref> The launch was condemned by several nations, describing it as an [[intercontinental ballistic missile]] test. The test also came after recent messages that North Korea had miniaturized [[nuclear warhead]]s for medium-range missiles and that the country had been recognized by analysts as a fully-fledged nuclear power.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6155956.ece|author=Richard Lloyd Parry|title=North Korea is fully fledged nuclear power, experts agree|publisher=Times Online|date=2009-05-24|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> ==North Korean statements== Albeit without citing a specific time, [[Pyongyang]] notified both [[Washington, D.C.]] and [[Beijing]] of its nuclear test about an hour before the actual detonation, which occurred at 9 p.m. EDT Sunday/0100 GMT Monday;<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090525|title=U.N. council condemns North Korea nuclear test|accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> the [[U.S. State Department]] promptly contacted the four other [[six-party talks]] members.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2009/05/124051.htm|title=Japan: North Korea Nuclear Test (Taken Question)|date=2009-05-26|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> The state-run [[Korean Central News Agency]] (KCNA) released an announcement claiming, in part, that: {{quotation|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-defence in every way as requested by its scientists and technicians. The current nuclear test was safely conducted on a new higher level in terms of its explosive power and technology of its control and 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.''<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/25/world/asia/25nuke-text.html|title=Text of the North Korean Announcement of Nuclear Test|author=KCNA|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=2009-05-24|accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref>}} This was interpreted as referring to the disputes over the low yield of the 2006 test.<ref name="nytimes_sang-hun">{{cite news|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/26/world/asia/26nuke.html|title= North Korean Nuclear Claim Draws Global Criticism|last=Sang-Hun|first=Choe|publisher=The New York Times|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> ==Seismic activity== South Korea and Japan reported seismic activity at 09:50 [[Korea Standard Time|KST]] (00:50 [[UTC]]).<ref name="AP1" /> The [[United States Geological Survey]] reported a magnitude 4.7 [[earthquake]] at a depth of zero and put the center of the tremor about {{convert|70|km}} northwest of [[Kimchaek]] and {{convert|375|km}} northeast of Pyongyang, within a few kilometres of the country's [[2006 North Korean nuclear test|2006 nuclear test]] site.<ref name="USGS">{{cite web | title=Earthquake Details: Magnitude 4.7 - NORTH KOREA | url=http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/us2009hbaf.php | work=Earthquake Hazards Program | publisher=[[United States Geological Survey]] | date=2009-05-25 | accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref><ref name="earthquake">[http://cnnwire.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/24/earthquake-shakes-north-korea/ Earthquake shakes North Korea]. CNN. 24 May 2009.</ref> The [[Japan Meteorological Agency]] measured the seismic activity at magnitude 5.3.<ref name="AP1">{{cite news|title=NKorea says it conducted 2nd nuclear test|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iURO8fOyWVOA0ytFlaAGuC9F7R9wD98D2P8G0|publisher=The Associated Press|date=2009-05-25}}</ref> The [[University of Science and Technology (South Korea)|Korea Institute of Geoscience & Mineral Resources]] reported seismic activity in the same area but far stronger than in 2006.<ref name="AP1" /> The test was allegedly conducted from {{convert|5|km}} underground,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25538669-601,00.html|title=North Korea's nuclear defiance with bomb test|author=Peter Alford|publisher=[[The Australian]]|date=2009-05-26|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> probably making it the deepest nuclear test made to date.<ref>[http://www.johnstonsarchive.net/nuclear/tests/hob.html Nuclear tests: height/depth of burst vs. yield]</ref> The [[Russia]]n [[Ministry of Defence (Russia)|Defence Ministry]] confirmed it had detected a nuclear detonation in North Korea and was analysing the data to determine the yield.<ref>{{cite news|title=Russian Defence Ministry confirmed that North Korea conducted a nuclear test|url=http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=13973189|publisher=ITAR-TASS|date=2009-05-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/North-Korea-Nuclear-Weapon-Test-Country-Confirms-Trial-Was-A-Success-South-Korea-Calls-Meeting/Article/200905415287844|title=Russia 'Confirms' North Korea Nuclear Test|publisher=Sky News|date=2009-05-25}}</ref> In [[China]], tremors were felt in the prefecture of [[Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture|Yanbian]], which borders North Korea, and forced students in some local schools to be evacuated.<ref>{{cite news|title=朝核试验引发地震致延边部分地区有震感 学校疏散|url=http://world.huanqiu.com/roll/2009-05/470623.html|publisher=Huanqiu.com|date=2009-05-25}}</ref> The test is believed to have taken place in the vicinity of P’unggyeri ([[Korean language|Korean]]: {{lang|kr|풍계리}}), which was the site of the nuclear test held in 2006.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wowkorea.jp/news/Korea/2009/0525/10057746.html|title=気象庁「北朝鮮・豊渓里でM4．5の人工地震」|publisher=AISE Inc.|date=2009-05-25}}</ref> ==Yield== The size of North Korea's second nuclear test has not yet been confirmed although general agreement is the nuclear test was successful despite the uncertainty around its yield.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.rian.ru/world/20090525/155082944.html|title=N. Korea conducts 3 missile trials after nuke test - Yonhap|publisher=[[RIA Novosti]]|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> Based on 23 seismic readings, the Preparatory Commission for the [[Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization]] estimated a blast wave of magnitude 4.52. This compared to magnitude 4.1, equivalent to 800 [[TNT equivalent|tons of TNT]], for the 2006 test. An anonymous U.S. military source estimated the blast at 1.5 kilotons.<ref name="Ramstad">Evan Ramstad, Jay Solomon, Peter Spiegal, "[http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124322074782250897.html Korean Blast Draws Outrage]", ''Wall Street Journal'', May 26, 2009.</ref> The [[Information Telegraph Agency of Russia]] (ITAR-TASS) quoted an unnamed [[Ministry of Defence (Russia)|Russian Defence Ministry]] official as saying the test had a [[nuclear weapons yield|yield]] of 10 to 20 kilotons.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90853/6665133.html|title=Russia confirms DPRK nuclear test: reports|publisher=People's Daily Online |date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6356931.ece|title=Diplomatic fallout rains on Pyongyang from a blast that shook the world|publisher=The Times|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> This was approximately the yield of the [[Fat Man]] and [[Trinity test|Trinity]] bombs developed by the United States during [[World War II]].<ref name=Jeffrey>{{cite web | last = Park | first = Jeffrey | title = The North Korean nuclear test: What the seismic data says | publisher = [http://thebulletin.org/ "Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists"] | date = 2009-05-26 | url = http://thebulletin.org/web-edition/features/the-north-korean-nuclear-test-what-the-seismic-data-says | accessdate = 2009-05-28 }}</ref> It was noted that the source of the Russian estimate was unknown and that in 2006 the Russians estimated a far higher yield of 5 to 10 kilotons when other sources estimated a yield of 0.5 to 0.9 kilotons.<ref name="nytimes_sang-hun" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nautilus.org/fora/security/0689HayesKang.html|title=Technical Analysis of the DPRK Nuclear Test|author=Jungmin Kang|coauthors=Peter Hayes|date=2006-10-20|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> Defense Minister Lee Sang-Hee of South Korea said that more data were needed but that the yield might be between 1 to 20 kilotons.<ref name="nytimes_sang-hun" /> Analyst Martin Kalinowski at the [[University of Hamburg]] estimated the yield at being from 3 to 8 kilotons, still a very successful test when compared with the 2006 test.<ref name="nytimes_sang-hun" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.armscontrolwonk.com/file_download/177/Kalinowski.pdf|title=Second nuclear test conducted by North Korea on 25 May 2009|date=2009-05-25|last=Kalinowski|first=Martin|publisher=Carl Friedrich von Weizsäcker Centre for Science and Peace Research, Universität Hamburg}}</ref> Kalinowski mentioned in conclusion that the test was "still short of the explosion energy released by the Hiroshima ([[Little Boy]], 15 kt TNT yield) and Nagasaki (Fat Man, 21 kt TNT yield) bombs." [[Hans M. Kristensen]] of the [[Federation of American Scientists]] cautioned that more analysis would be needed before the yield was known, and that "early news media reports about a 'Hiroshima-size' nuclear explosion seem to be overblown."<ref name="nytimes_sang-hun"/> The ''[[Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists]]'' asserted that the blast was more powerful than the 2006 test, but put the yield between 2 to 6 kilotons, far short of a Hiroshima-type device. The article concluded that the bomb failed to detonate correctly, but that still in that case the potential of this weapon could not be dismissed.<ref name="Jeffrey" /> Dr Ludwig De Braeckeleer estimated the yield between 1.4 and 2.8 kilotons.<ref>{{cite web|title=Yield of North Korea's Second Nuke|publisher=OhMyNews International |date=2009-05-28|author=Dr L. De Braeckeleer |url=http://english.ohmynews.com/articleview/article_view.asp?article_class=3&no=385286&rel_no=1|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> {{As of|2009|5|29}}, U.S. testing to determine whether North Korea indeed fired a nuclear device on 25 May was "inconclusive", according to U.S. officials.<ref>{{cite web|title=U.S. says North Korea test results "inconclusive"|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSWBT011299|publisher=Reuters |date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> ==Missile tests== On the same day, North Korea also conducted three short-range surface-to-air missile tests.<ref name="aljazeera">{{cite news|url=http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia-pacific/2009/05/20095270458302529.html|title=Defiant N Korea fires sixth missile|publisher=Al Jazeera English|date=2009-05-26|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> Of which, the first missile had a range of {{convert|130|km|abbr=on}},<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/SEO175027.htm|title=North Korea follows nuclear test with missile launch|publisher=Reuters AlertNet|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> most probably a long-range [[S-200 Angara/Vega/Dubna|S-200]] SAM.<ref>See SAM systems table at [[KPAF#Air Defense]]</ref> The South Korean news agency [[Yonhap]] cited military officials as saying that the launches seemed to be aimed at keeping U.S. and Japanese surveillance planes away from the site.<ref name ="yahoo">{{cite news|url=http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090525/ap_on_re_as/as_koreas_nuclear|title=Defying world powers, N. Korea conducts nuke test|author=Jean H. Lee|publisher=The Associated Press|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> On 26 May 2009, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported, citing an official, that North Korea fired two <!-- according to previous paragraph's aljazeera source 3 missiles were fired on the 26th--> more short-range missiles off an east-coast base, one ground-to-ship missile and one surface-to-air missile, the move came as UN diplomats began work on a resolution to punish North Korea for its underground nuclear test.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8067711.stm|title=North Korea 'fires more missiles'|publisher=BBC |date=2009-05-26|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> By 27 May 2009, more than five short range missiles were launched by North Korea. A military spokesman quoted by official media said that North Korea could no longer guarantee the safety of shipping off its west coast - suggesting a missile could also be fired in that direction.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/North-Korea-Has-Launched-Another-Missile-Since-Testing-A-Nuclear-Weapon-In-Pyangyong/Article/200905415289598?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Article_Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15289598_North_Korea_Has_Launched_Another_Missile_Since_Testing_A_Nuclear_Weapon_In_Pyangyong |title=North Korea Threats 'Won't Win Attention'|publisher=Sky News |date=2009-05-27|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> Another short-range missile was fired off North Korea's east coast on 28 May 2009.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0529/korea.html|title=N Korea fires short-range missile|publisher=RTÉ Ireland |date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/pyongyang-raises-stakes-with-another-missile-test-1693161.html|title=Pyongyang raises stakes with another missile test|publisher=Independent.co.uk|date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> On 29 May, U.S. officials said that satellite photos revealed vehicle activity at two sites in North Korea suggesting that North Korean military may be preparing to launch a long-range ballistic missile.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iINuv9D2sTgAI4qgcH5lbnVDzphw|title=Activity spotted at two NKorea missile sites: US officials|publisher=AFP|date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iURO8fOyWVOA0ytFlaAGuC9F7R9wD98G6MI05|title=US officials: North Korea may launch new missiles|publisher=Associated Press|date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> This was reaffirmed on 1 June, 2009 by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates who said at a news conference with his Philippine counterpart during a brief visit to Manila "We have seen some signs that they may be doing something with another [[Taepodong-2]] missile, but at this point it's not clear what they're doing,".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124386006995372071.html|title=Gates See Evidence of Another Long-Range North Korea Missile|date=2009-06-01|accessdate=2009-06-01}}</ref> South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported on 2 June, 2009 that North Korea is readying as many as three medium-range missiles, according to some analysts [[Rodong]] missiles, at a missile base in Anbyeon region, Gangwon Province, northeast of the capital of Pyongyang. As a response South Korea deployed a high-speed naval vessel equipped with anti-ship missiles to its sea border with North Korea.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601080&sid=as2nKYrXBIo4&refer=asia|title=South Korea Deploys Warship as North Readies Missiles (Update1)|publisher= Bloomberg |date=2009-06-02 |accessdate= 2009-06-02}}</ref> ==International reaction== ===International organisations=== * [[Association of Southeast Asian Nations ]]: the 10 [[ASEAN]] leaders and South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak made a statement at the end of the [[ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit]] and condemned the nuclear test and recent missile launches as "clear violations" of [[UN Security Council]] resolutions and the agreements reached at six-party nuclear disarmament talks. They said peaceful denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula was essential to keep the regional peace and expressed full support for resumption of the stalled six-party talks. "North Korea's underground test is a serious threat to peace and security in Northeast Asia and beyond," Lee told at the closing press conference, expressing "sincere gratitude" to ASEAN's leaders for their statement.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gH3LDLN5I_taJvyguUUcZOWypS9Q|title=SKorea, ASEAN rap nuke test, sign free trade pact|publisher=AFP|date=2009-06-02|accessdate=2009-06-02}}</ref> * [[Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization]]: The Preparatory Commission for the CTBTO's International Monitoring System immediately detected the North Korean Nuclear test with 38 of its seismic stations throughout the world. Within 24 hours of this detection, CTBTO Executive Secretary Tibor Tóth gave briefings to both representatives from member states as well as the press on the CTBTO findings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ctbto.org/press-centre/press-releases/2009/ctbtos-initial-findings-on-the-dprks-2009-announced-nuclear-test/|title=CTBTO's Initial Findings on the DPRK's 2009 announced nuclear test: CTBTO Preparatory Commission|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-28}}</ref> * {{flag|European Union}}: The EU's foreign policy chief [[Javier Solana]] condemned the test. "These irresponsible acts by North Korea warrant a firm response by the international community. The European Union will be in contact with its partners to discuss appropriate measures," he said in a written statement.<ref name="cnn" /> * <!-- Do NOT add the NATO flag, as it is a non-free image. -->[[NATO]]: "These irresponsible actions by [[Pyongyang]] pose a serious challenge to peace, security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and are being universally condemned by the international community," NATO said in a statement. "We call upon Pyongyang to refrain from any other actions which could contribute to raising tensions and to restore dialogue within the Six-Party framework. The Alliance will continue to carefully monitor developments with deep concern."<ref>{{cite web| title=FACTBOX-Reaction to North Korea's nuclear test|url=http://www.forbes.com/feeds/reuters/2009/05/25/2009-05-25T165856Z_01_SP357834_RTRIDST_0_KOREA-NORTH-REACTION-FACTBOX.html|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> * [[Image:OSCE logo.svg|27px]] [[Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe]]: OSCE chairwoman-in-Office and [[Greece|Greek]] [[Foreign Minister]] [[Dora Bakoyannis]] condemned North Korea's claimed nuclear test, identifying it as a threat to stability in the region. "I strongly condemn North Korea's declared nuclear test. I am deeply concerned by this threat to regional and global stability," Bakoyannis added in [[Athens]]. "Rather than enhancing its nuclear capabilities, North Korea should return immediately to the six-party talks and avoid any actions that would further heighten tensions."<ref>{{cite web| title=OSCE Chairperson condemns North Korean nuclear test as threat to stability in region|url=http://www.osce.org/item/37832.html|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> * {{Flag|United Nations}}: The [[United Nations Security Council|Security Council]] unanimously condemned the test and was quoted as saying that "The members of the Security Council voiced their strong opposition to and condemnation of the nuclear test conducted by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on 25 May 2009, which constitutes a clear violation of [[United Nations Security Council Resolution 1718|resolution 1718]]" and that council members "have decided to start work immediately on a Security Council resolution on this matter".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE54O4FS20090525|title=U.N. Security Council condemns North Korea nuclear test|publisher=Reuters|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-26}}</ref> ===Members of the six-party talks=== {{see also|Six-party talks}} * {{Flag|North Korea}}: The North Korean news agency [[Korean Central News Agency|KCNA]] confirmed the test and called it "successful". The agency also said the test was "aimed at strengthening its self-defense nuclear deterrent in every way".<ref name="bbc" /> On 27 May, North Korea's permanent military mission to the North-South joint security area issued a statement, carried by the KCNA, as a reaction to S. Korea's decision to join the Proliferation Security Initiative saying it no longer is bound to the [[Korean_War#Stalemate_.28July_1951.E2.80.93July_1953.29|Korean War Armistice]] and will militarily respond to any foreign attempt to inspect its ships.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/05/27/UPI-NewsTrack-TopNews/UPI-66341243426271/|title=S. Korea joins PSI, North irate|publisher=United Press International|date=2009-05-27|accessdate=2009-05-30}}</ref> The KCNA news agency also reported on 29 May, regarding any new UN sanctions, that the North Korean Foreign Ministry said in a communique “If the UN Security Council provokes us, new measures to ensure the legitimate defense will be inevitable,”<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jSe-LRX2YqtqoPZRN5-DrDgbrdKg|title=Australian PM calls for unity against NKorea|publisher=AFP|date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-30}}</ref> * {{Flag|South Korea}}: [[President of South Korea|President]] [[Lee Myung-bak]] called an emergency cabinet meeting. <ref name="reuters">Kim, Jack. [http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE54O08120090525 North Korea conducts nuclear test: report]. Reuters. 24 May 2009.</ref> The decision was made to join the [[Proliferation Security Initiative]], a move which the North has repeatedly warned would be construed as a declaration of war.<ref>{{cite news |title=S. Korea to Join US-Led Anti-Proliferation Drill|url=http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2009/05/113_45671.html|publisher=The Korea Times|date=2009-5-26|accessdate=2009-05-27}}</ref> The [[ROK-US Combined Forces Command]] raised its surveillance condition from WATCHCON3 (important indications of threat) to WATCHCON2 (vital indications of threat).<ref>[http://www.ieas.or.kr/vol11_4/yoontaeyoung.htm Volume 11 Number 4 Winter 1999<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8071175.stm BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | Alert level raised on North Korea<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/oplan-5027-2.htm OPLAN 5027 Major Theater War - West<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/29/world/asia/29korea.html?ref=global-home South Korea and U.S. Raise Alert Level - NYTimes.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> President Lee Myung-bak made another statement at the begining of the [[ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit]] saying "We will continue to work to have North Korea observe UN Security Council resolutions".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/asiapacific/news/article_1480666.php/South_Korea_asks_ASEAN_for_support_in_nuclear_dispute_|title=South Korea asks ASEAN for support in nuclear dispute|publisher=Deutsche Presse Agentur|date=2009-06-01|accessdate=2009-06-01}}</ref> * {{Flag|China}}: The Foreign Ministry released a statement: "The DPRK ignored universal opposition of the international community and once more conducted the nuclear test. The Chinese government is resolutely opposed to it". The statement also strongly demanded that North Korea "return to the tracks of the six-party talks".<ref>{{cite news |title=Chinese gov't "resolutely opposes" DPRK's nuclear test |url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-05/25/content_11433096.htm |publisher=Xinhua |date=2009-05-25 |accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> * {{flag|Japan}}: Japan said the test was "unacceptable" and a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. It was also considering tightening sanctions in response.<ref name=autogenerated1>[http://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE54O0SS20090525 FACTBOX: Reaction to North Korea's nuclear test], Reuters, 25 May 2009</ref><ref name=japgov>{{cite web|url=http://www.mofa.go.jp/region/europe/v4_joint0905.html|title=V4+Japan Foreign Ministers' Meeting: Joint Press Statement|author=Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-28}}</ref> * {{Flag|Russia}}: The Foreign Ministry stated that "The latest steps of the DPRK escalate tensions in Northeast Asia and endanger regional security and stability" and violated UN Security Council Resolution 1718, but added that "We still think that the nuclear problem of the Korean Peninsula may be resolved only at the six-nation negotiations".<ref>{{cite news |title=FM: Russia urges DPRK to demonstrate responsibility |url=http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90853/6665383.html |publisher=People's Daily Online |date=2009-05-25 |accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> The Presidential spokewoman Nataliya Timakova said Russia “is seriously concerned” about North Korea’s nuclear test and that “Russian competent services express regret and voice serious concern about North Korea’s nuclear test in the area adjacent to the Russian Federation”.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=13976466&PageNum=0|title=RF seriously concerned about N Korea’s nuke test|agency=ITAR-TASS|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-28}}</ref> * {{flag|United States}}: The [[Executive Office of the President of the United States|White House]] condemned the test, saying "North Korea is directly and recklessly challenging the international community. The danger posed by North Korea's threatening activities warrants action by the international community."<ref name="cnn">[http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/05/24/nkorea.nuclear/index.html North Korea's second nuclear test stirs outrage]. CNN. 25 May 2009. Accessed 25 May 2009.</ref> [[United States president|President]] [[Barack Obama]]'s official statement promised "international acceptance" if North Korea complied.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE54O0ST20090525?virtualBrandChannel=10531 TEXT: Obama statement on North Korea nuclear test | Reuters<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> He also said that the country's actions "pose a grave threat to the peace and stability of the world".<ref name="obama">{{cite news | title = Obama: North Korean nuclear test 'a grave threat' | publisher = CNN | date = 25 May 2009 | url = http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/05/25/us.north.korea.react/index.html | accessdate = 25 May 2009}}</ref> [[Susan Rice]], [[United States Ambassador to the United Nations|US ambassador to the UN]], added that, "North Korea needs to understand that its actions have consequences" and that they would "pay a price for their action," in the form of further sanctions.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8068619.stm North Korea 'will pay' over tests] [[BBC]]. 26 May 2009. Retrieved on 26 May 2009.</ref> [[Robert Gates]], the [[US Defense Secretary]], delivered a stark warning to North Korea, on 30 May 2009 "The policy of the United States has not changed," he said. "Our goal is complete and verifiable denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, and we will not accept North Korea as a nuclear weapons state."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/5413447/Leaders-live-in-luxury-while-North-Koreans-starve-to-pay-for-nuclear-bomb.html|title=Leaders live in luxury while North Koreans starve to pay for nuclear bomb|publisher=The Telegraph|date=2009-05-31|accessdate=2009-05-31}}</ref> ===Security Council permanent members=== :''Note: The members not listed here (China, Russia, and the United States) are members of the six-party talks and thus are covered above.'' * {{flag|France}}: French Foreign Ministry spokesman Eric Chevallier said France "strongly condemns" the missile test and urges North Korea "to abstain from any new provocation".<ref>[http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=958804&lang=eng_news France wants new sanctions for North Korea], Taiwan News, May 25, 2009</ref> * {{flag|United Kingdom}}: UK [[Prime Minister of the United Kingdom|Prime Minister]] [[Gordon Brown]] said: "I condemn North Korea's nuclear test in the strongest terms. This act will undermine prospects for peace on the Korean peninsula and will do nothing for North Korea's security. The international community will treat North Korea as a partner if it behaves responsibly. If it does not then it can expect only renewed isolation."<ref name="cnn" /> British [[Minister for International Defence and Security]] [[Ann Taylor, Baroness Taylor of Bolton|Ann Taylor]] made a statement on 31 May 2009 concerning the imminent UN security council sanctions towards North Korea. "There is a genuine world concern, and hopefully a consensus will come from that," she said. "It is that unity of action that I think is important here. Because if we only can get the unity of action, the regime in North Korea will understand the strength of feeling and will begin to take notice."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090531|title=U.S., allies prepare for tougher response to N.Korea|publisher=Reuters|date=2009-05-31|accessdate=2009-05-31}}</ref> ===Other countries=== * {{Flag|Argentina}}: The Ministry for Foreign Affairs, headed by foreign minister [[Jorge Taiana]], condemned the test, saying "North Korea has disregarded calls of the international community, carrying out new launches of ballistic missiles", and urged "North Korea to resume dialogue and negotiations, primarily through the process known as the six-party talks, [...] as the legitimate method to express its aspirations and expectations in terms of security".<ref name="La Nación">{{cite news|url=http://www.lanacion.com.ar/nota.asp?nota_id=1132100|title=La Argentina condenó el nuevo ensayo nuclear de Corea del Norte|publisher=[[La Nación]]|language=Spanish|date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-25|quote=En sintonía con varios países, la Argentina manifestó una enérgica condena al nuevo ensayo nuclear realizado por Corea del Norte. "Corea del Norte ha desoído los llamamientos de la comunidad internacional, efectuando nuevos lanzamientos de misiles balísticos", manifestó la Cancillería, a cargo de Jorge Taiana a través de un comunicado. En el texto "urge a Corea del Norte a que retome la vía del diálogo y la negociación, principalmente a través del proceso conocido como conversaciones entre las seis partes, que involucra a los Estados Unidos, la Federación de Rusia, la República Popular China, Japón y la República de Corea, como método legítimo de expresar sus aspiraciones y expectativas en materia de seguridad".}}</ref> * {{Flag|Australia}}: Australia offered "absolute condemnation".<ref name="nyt" /> * {{flag|Brazil}}: The Ministry of External Relations issued a statement saying it hoped that North Korea would "rejoin, as soon as possible and as a non-nuclear-armed state, the [[Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons]]" and return to negotiations aimed at denuclearisation of the [[Korean Peninsula]]. * {{flag|Bulgaria}}: Bulgarian Foreign Ministry has condemned the test, stating: "We express deep concern about the conducted nuclear test of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on 25 May 2009. The test is in violation of Resolution 1718 of the United Nations Security Council and we call for the country to unconditionally and immediately return to the Six-party talks."<ref>[http://www.mfa.bg/bg/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19668&Itemid=216 Official statement]</ref> * {{flag|Canada}}: [[Canadian Prime Minister|Prime Minister]] [[Stephen Harper]] condemned the test, saying "North Korea's aggressive weapons programs represent a grave threat to international security, and are specifically troubling for stability in Northeast Asia."<ref>[http://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2009/05/25/north-korea-nuclear-test-reaction.html World must 'stand up to' North Korea following nuclear test: Obama]</ref> * {{flag|Colombia}}: Colombian government condemned the test saying: "Colombia strongly condemns the subterranian nuclear test done by North Korea (...)"<ref>[http://colombiareports.com/colombia-news/news/4215-colombia-condemns-n-korea-nuclear-tests.html Colombia condemns N-Korea nuclear tests]</ref> * {{flag|Germany}}: Germany condemned the test.<ref name="nyt">Cowell, Alan.[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/26/world/asia/26reax.html?hp Governments Urge Security Council Action]. NYT. 25 May 2009. Accessed 25 May 2009.</ref> * {{flag|Iceland}}: [[Össur Skarphéðinsson]], Minister for Foreign Affairs, "strongly condemns North Korea’s nuclear test."<ref name="icegov">[http://www.mfa.is/speeches-and-articles/nr/4984 Ossur Skarphedinsson on North Korea]. Iceland Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 25 May 2009. Accessed 25 May 2009.</ref> * {{Flag|India}}: India described the nuclear test by North Korea as a matter of serious concern for the entire world and said that India is "against" nuclear proliferation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/PoliticsNation/India-denounces-N-Koreas-nuke-test/articleshow/4574354.cms|title=India denounces North Korea's nuclear test|date=25 May 2009|work=The Economics Times|accessdate=2009-05-25}}</ref> * {{flag|Indonesia}}: Indonesia deplored the test, saying it would "create new tensions in the region, especially in East Asia".<ref>[http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/05/25/ri-deplores-n-korea%E2%80%99s-second-nuclear-test.html RI deplores N. Korea’s second nuclear test], ''[[The Jakarta Post]]'', May 25, 2009</ref> * {{flag|Iran}}: Foreign Ministry spokesman Hassan Qashqavi said the test was an "internal affair" of North Korea.<ref>[http://www.albawaba.com/en/countries/Iran/246531 North Korea nuclear test - ”internal affair”, says Iran], Al Babwaba, May 25, 2009</ref> * {{flag|Israel}}: A statement released by the Foreign Ministry said it viewed the test with "extreme gravity" that had "negative ramifications for our region". It called on the international community to "act with determination" to send a message to other countries.<ref>[http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1243259514659&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull Israel views N. Korean nuclear test with 'extreme gravity'], ''[[The Jerusalem Post]]'', May 25, 2009</ref> * {{flag|Malaysia}}: [[Prime Minister of Malaysia|Prime Minister]] [[Najib Tun Razak]] said he was "concerned that North Korea's display of nuclear capability will further heighten the tension in the Korean peninsula and affect the whole East Asian region," and hoped that the issue would be resolved through six-party talks as well as by the UN Security Council.<ref>[http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/5/26/nation/20090526134429&sec=nation M'sia concerned over N. Korea's nuclear test], [[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]. 26 May 2009. Retrieved on 26 May 2009.</ref> * {{flag|Mexico}}: A press release issued by the Foreign Ministry said: "Mexico vigorously condemns the nuclear test on May 25 and the launching of three short-range missiles confirmed by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. These actions violate international law and the goals of disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. They also exacerbate the tensions on the Korean peninsula and put the region’s stability at risk." .<ref name="Ministry of Foreign Affairs">[http://www.sre.gob.mx/english/ Mexico condems north korean nuclear test]. SRE website. 25 May 2009. Accessed 25 May 2009.</ref> * {{flag|New Zealand}}: New Zealand expressed worries about the test.<ref name="nyt" /> * {{flag|Norway}}: The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a press release saying that "Norway strongly condemns the North Korean nuclear test" and continues to state that the test is in clear conflict with the goal of reaching a political solution to the North Korean nuclear weapons programme. The press release stated that Norwegian humanitarian and medical aid to North Korea will continue, but stressed that this is not a long-term commitment.<ref name="nogov">[http://www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/ud/press/News/2009/nkorea_sprengning.html?id=563197 Norge fordømmer Nord-Koreas prøvesprengning]. Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Relations. 25 May 2009. Accessed 25 May 2009.{{no icon}}</ref> * {{flag|Poland}}: The [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Poland)|Foreign Ministry]] released a statement which condemned the test and said, "The nuclear test constitutes a violation of Security Council resolution 1718 and will have negative impact on the security situation in the Korean Peninsula and the region of North-East Asia".<ref name="Poland expresses ">[http://www.wbj.pl/article-45616-poland-expresses-deep-concern-about-north-korean-nuclear-tests.html?typ=ise Warsaw Business Journal - Online Portal - wbj.pl<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> * {{flag|South Africa}}: South Africa said the test was "unacceptable", warning that nuclear weapons do not create security but are a "threat to humanity".<ref>[http://www.africasia.com/services/news/newsitem.php?area=africa&item=090525163530.l0udpfu5.php SAfrica calls NKorea nuclear test 'unacceptable' ], AFP at IC Publications, May 25, 2009</ref> * {{Flag|Sweden}}: Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs [[Carl Bildt]] issued a statement saying "It is alarming that the North Korean regime continues to provoke the international community."<ref name="segov">[http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/11422/a/126877 Carl Bildt on North Korea]. Swedish Government. 25 May 2009. Accessed 25 May 2009.</ref> * {{flag|Turkey}}: A statement from the Foreign Ministry condemned the incident, saying "this represents an act far from fulfilling the expectations of the international community striving for peace and stability to prevail in the region."<ref>[http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-05/26/content_11434463.htm Turkey condemns DPRK's nuclear test], [[Xinhua]], May 26, 2009</ref> * {{flag|Vatican City}}: In a statement released by its newspaper, [[L'Osservatore Romano]], the Vatican has condemned the nuclear test and warned that acts of aggression such as this threaten "the very survival" of the country's own people by exacerbating its isolation. <ref>[http://www.catholicnews.com/data/briefs/cns/20090527.htm#head8 Vatican condemns North Korean nuclear test, missile launches], [[Catholic News Service]] 27 May 2009, Accessed 28 May 2009</ref> * {{flag|Vietnam}}: Vietnam's Foreign Ministry issued a statement denouncing the test, saying Hanoi was "deeply concerned" and added that the nuclear test "only complicates the situation, and does not serve the interests of peace and stability in the region." <ref>[http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/270272,vietnam-adds-its-voice-to-denunciations-of-north-korea-test.html Vietnam adds its voice to denunciations of North Korea test], Earth Times DPA 25 May 2009, Accessed 28 May 2009</ref> ==Aftermath== News of the tests immediately affected South Korean markets, sending the main [[KOSPI]] share index down 4%, while the [[South Korean won|won]] dropped by 1% against the [[United States dollar|U.S. dollar]] on the day of the nuclear test, 25 May.<ref name="reuters" /> The [[Japanese yen|yen]] fell to 95.10 per dollar from its level of 94.78 on May 22, the near highest level in more than two months against the dollar.<ref>{{cite web |title=Yen Falls as North Korea Holds Nuclear Test, Launches Missiles |url=http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aH08mbkL5C9s&refer=japan |publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]] |date=2009-05-25|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> On 28 May, North Korea threatened to end the [[Korean War]] armistice, stating that "the Korean peninsula will go back to a state of war", whereupon the joint military command of South Korea and the United States increased its surveillance alert level from WATCHCON3 to WATCHCON2, the second-highest level of surveillance alert; the five-stage combat alert level remained at DEFCON4, the second-lowest level.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/5397767/South-Korea-and-US-troops-raise-alert-level-over-North-Korean-threat.html|title=South Korea and US troops raise alert level over North Korean threat|author=Malcolm Moore|publisher=''The Daily Telegraph''|date=2009-05-28|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/newshome/5611713|title=U.S. and South Korea raise military alert on North|agency=Reuters|publisher=Yahoo!7 News|date=2009-05-28|accessdate=2009-05-20}}</ref> Russia undertook security measures in case the war of nerves on the Korean peninsula erupted into a nuclear war.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3722406,00.html|title=Russia fears Korea conflict could go nuclear|agency=Reuters|publisher=[[Ynetnews]]|date=2009-05-27|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> North Korea also threatened on 29 May to attack South Korean and US warships near its coast if its sovereignty were infringed.<ref>[http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/north-korea-threatens-to-attack-us-warships/article1156833/ North Korea threatens to attack U.S. warships - The Globe and Mail]</ref> In Japan a policy debate ensued regarding strengthening its military up to and including the possibility of an independent pre-emptive strike capability and even nuclear armaments, subjects hitherto taboo.<ref>[http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=961802&lang=eng_news&cate_img=140.jpg&cate_rss=news_Opinion North Korea threat triggers calls for stronger Japanese military - Taiwan News]</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aj8rDljD4nO8|title=North Korea Tests Lift Lid on Japan’s Nuclear ‘Taboo’ (Update1)|publisher=Bloomberg|date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-29}}</ref> On 30 May, United Kingdom's [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] confirmed that a [[Vickers VC10|VC10]] tanker plane, which is used for air-to-air refuelling, had been sent to [[Kadena Air Base]] in [[Okinawa]], Japan to help support the investigations, led by the U.S. military, to determine the power of the nuclear explosion and the type of material that was used. A Ministry spokesman said: “Following the recent events in North Korea and to support the international community’s efforts during this time of increased political tension, we can confirm that the UK is supporting in the associated verification efforts.”<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6394392.ece |title=UK military aid Korean nuclear investigation|publisher= the Times Online |date=2009-05-30 |accessdate=2009-05-30}}</ref> On the same day, a U.S. [[F-22]] fighter jet arrived on Kadena Air Base, the first of twelve F-22's and approximately 280 [[Langley Air Force Base]] Airmen from the [[94th Fighter Squadron]], along with members of the [[Virginia Air National Guard]]'s [[192nd Fighter Wing]], that are being deployed to Kadena Air Base as part of a theatre security package.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE54T0V220090530 |title= Nuclear N.Korea won't change Japan defense: minister |publisher= Reuters |date=2009-05-30 |accessdate=2009-05-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123151680|title=Airmen, F-22s support Pacific presence mission|publisher= U.S. Air Force|date=2009-05-29|accessdate=2009-05-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest%2BNews/Asia/Story/A1Story20090531-145071.html|title= F-22 deployed to Japan amid tensions|publisher= AsiaOne Singapore Press |date=2009-05-31 |accessdate=2009-06-01}}</ref> [[U.S. Deputy Secretary of State]] [[Jim Steinberg]] accompanied by [[Stephen Bosworth]], the U.S. special envoy on North Korea, will lead a U.S. delegation to Asia the week starting 1 June 2009 to consult regional forces on how to respond to North Korea's latest nuclear test. The delegation also includes Stuart Levy, the Treasury under-secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, and Admiral James Winnefeld of the [[Joint Chiefs of Staff]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090531|title=U.S., allies prepare for tougher response to N.Korea|publisher=Reuters|date=2009-05-31|accessdate=2009-05-31}}</ref> ==See also== {{wikinews|North Korea conducts test of nuclear weapon}} * [[2006 North Korean nuclear test]] * [[Artillery Guidance Bureau]] * [[Korean People's Army|Military of North Korea]] * [[North Korea and weapons of mass destruction]] * [[Six-party talks]] ==References== {{reflist|2}} [[Category:2009 in North Korea|Nuclear test]] [[Category:Nuclear tests]] [[Category:Military of North Korea]] [[Category:Nuclear program of North Korea]] [[bg:Севернокорейски ядрен опит (2009)]] [[de:Nordkoreanisches Kernwaffenprogramm#Atomwaffentest 2009]] [[es:Prueba nuclear de Corea del Norte de 2009]] [[lt:2009 m. Šiaurės Korėjos branduolinis bandymas]] [[hu:2009-es észak-koreai nukleáris kísérlet]] [[ja:北朝鮮の核実験 (2009年)]] [[pl:Próby jądrowe w Korei Północnej 25 maja 2009 roku]] [[pt:Teste nuclear norte-coreano de 2009]] [[zh-yue:2009年北韓核試]] [[zh:2009年北韓核子試爆]]'