N.Korean President Says “State of War” Now Exists with South

 

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea says it has entered ‘a state of war’ with South Korea in the latest of a string of threats that have raised tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

 

 

A statement Saturday by Pyongyang said all matters between the sides will be dealt with in a manner befitting war.

Analysts say a full-scale conflict is suicidal for Pyongyang and the threats are aimed at drawing Washington into talks and building up their leader’s image.

North Korea is also threatening to shut down a factory complex that’s the last major symbol of inter-Korean cooperation.

A spokesman for the North’s office controlling the Kaesong industrial complex says it will close the factory park just across the border in North Korea if South Korea continues to undermine its dignity.

Meanwhile, North Koreans are also being given a softer side of their leader. Kim is portrayed as a young, energetic people person and family man. Images show Kim and his wife clapping at a dolphin show or linking arms with weeping North Korean children.