This is one of the most aggressive attacks since the "end" of the Korean war in 1953. It is also the second major attack on South Korea this year. Is this North Korea vying for the world's attention or is it connected with the succession of Kim Jong-il's son, Kim Jong-un? The answer seems no more clear in South Korea than anywhere else in the world. There is also some frustration in South Korea that the military's response wasn't strong enough. This is being blamed on how long it took to get approval to fire back.
North Korea is claiming that the South fired first. The SK military was holding live-round drills in the waters of the West Sea during the time of the attack. NK apparently faxed the SK government Tuesday morning saying they would not stand for those drills near the DeMiliterized Zone. This is a common move for NK, who really didn't have a say-so because the SK military was in South Korean waters. It was a surprise to all when North Korea fired at the island.
Many people in South Korea are frustrated and angered by the news. They are monitoring the situation with the rest of the world, but going on with a "life as usual" mentality. I can only imagine how upsetting it must be to have a neighboring country who keeps launching senseless attacks against you.
We will see how things play out in the next few days. I side with the general opinion in that, war is highly unlikely. North Korea will likely be reprimanded and the US and SK will use diplomatic means to coax NK into compliance once again. Another attack at this time is highly unlikely, much less anywhere near Seoul. (The island is about 85miles west of us) For those of you who are concerned, we are safe and sound in our little NE corner of Seoul. :)
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