And when they attacked South Korea by sinking a corvette and bombarding an island, they fully expected South Korea to fight back (and risk war)!
A year ago, the North Korean government officially ordered the media and propaganda specialists to expose all North Koreans to an increased amount of pro-war exhortations. This was apparently to justify the two major attacks on South Korea last year (the sinking of a corvette and firing artillery at a South Korean island). Apparently, the North Korean leadership feared a military response from South Korea, and wanted to ensure that their people would get behind defending the North Korean government.
Explain to me again how "everyone" knows war would be folly.
Oh, and China is applying a dose of "good puppy" to their pet mad dog:
China said Friday it would strengthen military ties with ally North Korea, amid continuing tensions between Pyongyang and Seoul and stalled efforts to restart nuclear disarmament talks.
It appears more symbolic than material. But the material reality of North Korea's museum-quality military hasn't sunk in. Why should the lack of practical help be what the Pyongyang elites latch on to?
I don't worry about North Korea making stupid decision. I worry about them making decisions that they think are brilliant.
Sometimes I don't know why I don't drink heavily.
