Hyun adds,the North Korean leader also has to think about possible power succession, whether it happens right away or some time later- that is another reason to reinforce his power base.

VOA: standard.2009.06.22

North Korea's official Rodung Sinmun newspaper described the country as a "proud nuclear power" Monday, and warned it would be a "great mistake for the United States to think it will not be hurt" in the event of military conflict on the peninsula.

VOA: standard.2009.06.22