North Korea's Kim Jong-un crosses into South Korea
Kim Jong-un has become the first North Korean leader to set foot in South Korea by crossing the military line that has divided the peninsula since the end of the Korean War in 1953. In a moment rich with symbolism and pomp, South Korean leader Moon Jae-in and Mr Kim shook hands at the border. Mr Kim said he hoped for "frank" discussion in a warm opening exchange.
Just months ago North Korean rhetoric was warlike, but now they may discuss a peace treaty and nuclear weapons. Much of what the summit will focus on has been agreed in advance, but many analysts remain deeply sceptical about the North's apparent enthusiasm for engagement.
Also at The Guardian (live) and Reuters:
During their private meeting, Kim told Moon he came to the summit to end the history of conflict and joked he was sorry for keeping Moon up with his late night missile tests, a South Korean official said.
North Korea's nuclear site collapse may be reason Kim Jong Un ceased bomb tests, scientists say
North Korea's nuclear test site has collapsed after the region sustained damage from five nuclear blast trials, Chinese scientists said Wednesday — leading many to believe it may be the reason why Kim Jong Un suddenly announced the rogue regime would freeze its nuclear and missile tests.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Friday April 27 2018, @03:37PM
As far as the credit-for-meeting, in my opinion it's about the circumstances. Sanctions can starve people already of borderline health such that it WAS seen as heartless by the world. Plus, China doesn't want refugees flooding in. But NK's recent WMD successes and threats change the sanction pressure and realities enough that Kim realizes his country is now more likely to be starved to death. The collapsed testing site also highlights the problems and resources necessary to maintain such systems. Therefore, he's more open to negotiations than before.