April 25, 2024
Analysis

Where China stands after N.Korea’s fourth test

Greatly irritated by Pyongyang’s behavior, China still considers U.S. moves in Asia more threatening

North Korea conducted its fourth nuclear test earlier this month, so we can be pretty certain that the UN Security Council will meet in the near future to discuss a new set of measures to be implemented to deal with the perennial “North Korean issue.”

There is little doubt that China essentially holds all the keys, so Beijing’s position will be decisive for both drafting the UN resolution and, more significantly, its eventual implementation. However, there is a very good reason to believe that, this time, unlike in 2013, North Korean hardliners should not take Chinese support for granted. The measure to be taken will be limited, but China will not remain completely passive.

Become a member for less than $4 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.