Nov 23, 2010

North Korea fires artillery on South Korea

Topographic map of North Korea. Created with G...Image via WikipediaA deadly artillery exchange between North Korea and South Korea has alarmed leaders worldwide. The attacks took place during military exercises being conducted by South Korea on the Yeonpyeong Island.

Reports suggest that the battle was initiated by Kim Jong-un, North Korea's newly appointed successor to current dictator, Kim Jung-il, as a show of muscle. In addition to demands for independence from the South, North Korea wants to be recognized as a nuclear power.

Civilian homes on Yeonpyeong Island, off the coast of North Korea, are in flames as black smoke billows into the sky. The death toll from the shelling has not been officially established among the civilian population. However, The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting that two South Korean marines are dead and 12 have been wounded.

Japan called the attack "unforgivable." France, China, Australia and the United States have also condemned the military action.

An emergency session of the United Nations Security council will attempt to diplomatically contain tensions between the two rival nations.


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