at war
on may 30th of this year - 2009, just a few days ago as of this writing, the democratic people's republic of korea (also known as the dprk or north korea) officially declared that it will no longer recognize the demarcation line between itself and the republic of korea (also known as the rok or south korea), breaking the terms of the 56-year ceasefire that brought a halt to military action in the korean war and - in spirit if nothing else - resuming the war. such phrasing may cause alarm in some readers, but be aware that wars tend to be mutually-agreed-upon events for all parties involved, and the actions of the north have passed without incident in the south. with war just as with love, if only one side of the relationship declares intentions towards the other, it is difficult for an outside observer to say that anything is underway, especially if the declarer has little ability or desire to bring its actions in line with its posturing. as such, the south has done what is has typically done: nothing, save for a brief condemnation to placate those in the international community and to sooth those with business interests in the country. there is a hitherto well-established pattern to the north's ostensibly militaristic behaviour; a vague threat will be issued, generally not directed at any one country in particular, accompanied by a small display of military prowess or a reveal of possessed military technology that foreign observers were previously unaware of. this is followed by a diplomatic exchange with whomever happens to be paying attention and concerned at the time, after which a retraction of threats or exchange of arms will be made to gain access to foreign aid or business agreements or a lift of embargoes or whatever the north happens to be in need of. despite the rhetoric spewing forth from pyongyang, there has not, since the declaration of the ceasefire, been any military exchange or significant military event, save for a very small naval skirmish over twenty years ago. all has been confined to weapon test facilities and boardrooms. (there are a few cases of killings somewhat influenced by the political situation, but they were carried out by people acting individually, not representing either of the countries. the instances became public and the governments were required to become involved, but original events were not directed by the governments.