[kaehurowing]

Nothing happens in NK without the PRC’s tacit approval.

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I think that’s the problem. I think even from China’s perspective, Kim is off the reservation. China wants NK as a buffer state against S Korea / U.S., but even they don’t want a nut case running the place.

And who knows, maybe Kim is thinking his nukes can also be used as a threat against China if they make noises to remove him.

[Eric in the Ozarks]

NK is everything China wishes it still was.
I don't think the Chinese would care to invade NK like they did Tibet. Korea is the bump on the butt of Asia.

[Tallguy]

The Nork regime has been the PRC’s junkyard dog. They sometimes let it off the leash to terrorize the immediate area. But we all know what happens to that junkyard dog when it bites it’s master.