North Korean leader Kim John Un threatened to attack South Korea “without notice” in response to demonstrations held in the South marking the anniversary of its former leader’s death. This threat comes only weeks following the execution of Kim’s uncle Jang Song Thaek who was believed to be North Korea’s #2 and during former NBA basketball start Dennis Rodman’s current visit. It is unknown if Rodman has or will meet with his “friend-for-life”, Kim Jong Un, during his current visit where he is reportedly training the North Korean basketball team.
South Korea’s Defense Ministry said they received the letter from the North’s National Defense Commission via facsimile through a military communication link between the two sides warning of a “merciless” attack on the South. The letter objected to the “repeated extra-large provocations to North Korea’s highest dignity taking place in the middle of Seoul” and threatened “a merciless retaliation without warning,” ministry spokesman Kim Min-seok said.
The warning comes after conservative activists and North Korean refugee groups held demonstrations in Seoul on the anniversary of Kim Jong II’s death where some protesters reportedly burned pictures of current leader Kim Jong Un.
The South Korean government reportedly responded to Pyonghang’s threats by sending a fax back to North Korea that promised “resolute punishment” in response to any provocation from the North.” North Korea has recently turned to attempts at diplomacy with South Korea and the United States but tensions have remained high since Pyongyang’s threats in March and April which included warnings that it would restart nuclear bomb fuel production.
Meantime, Dennis Rodman held tryouts for a North Korean basketball team Friday to face a dozen NBA veterans in an exhibition game on Kim’s birthday next month. Rodman said plans for the January 8 game are moving ahead but some of the 12 Americans he wants are afraid to come to Pyongyang.
To see my previous reports concerning the Korean situation, click here: https://fggam.org/will-basketball-man-dennis-rodman-get-to-see-his-friend-for-life-again/
