North Korean leaders are sending mixed signals to the U.S. and South Korea after testing multiple missiles in the last month; one was launched just yesterday. Though there has been some discussion over improving communications between the north and south, it was shortly followed by another demonstration of developing weaponry.
The Supreme leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-un, met with former U.S. president, Donald Trump, on three separate occasions in 2018 and 2019 to discuss the U.S.-Korea relationship. Many have been hopeful that this would lead to more positive relations between the U.S. and North Korea, but these missile tests during the new presidency are sending a hostile message.
Living conditions of the people in North Korea are kept as low profile as possible by the leaders, but it is believed to be quite unpleasant with food shortages and limited freedom. Leaders of the U.S. and South Korea have mistakenly assumed that North Korea would spare weapon expenses with the increased financial struggles brought on by the Pandemic. However, Mr. Kim continues to put funds towards these types of tests.
North Korea has been careful to not push limits, such as nuclear testing, but extensive nuclear testing is likely outside the price range of the country. Mr. Kim is taking his opportunity to test now, especially since current U.S. president Joe Biden has shown no intentions of meeting. Whether the leaders are intending to send a hostile message or not, they are undeniably demonstrating that they do not feel threatened that the U.S. will step in.
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