2009 North Korean nuclear test

{{Main|North Korea and weapons of mass destruction}}

North Korea (officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, or DPRK) had threatened to conduct a second nuclear test in protest after the United Nations Security Council adopted a presidential statement condemning the country after it launched a rocket, which it claimed was carrying the Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 satellite, on 5 April 2009.{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jntKjLG2Y9N0a8MuIY8O__cOnWbQ |author=Jun Kwanwoo |title=World fury at North Korea nuclear test |agency=AFP |date=24 May 2009 |access-date=24 May 2009 |archive-date=30 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630081436/http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jntKjLG2Y9N0a8MuIY8O__cOnWbQ |url-status=dead }} The launch was condemned by several nations, describing it as an intercontinental ballistic missile test.

The test occurred shortly after North Korea announced that it possessed miniaturized nuclear warheads for medium-range missiles and that it had been recognized by analysts as a fully fledged nuclear power.{{cite news |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6155956.ece |author=Richard Lloyd Parry |title=North Korea is fully fledged nuclear power, experts agree |work=The Times |date=24 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |location=London |archive-date=25 May 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100525120848/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6155956.ece |url-status=dead }}

In June 2009, after it was announced that Kim Jong Un was the intended successor of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il, U.S. government analysts speculated that the purpose of the nuclear test was to establish North Korea as a nuclear power within Kim Jong Il's lifetime.{{cite news |title=North Korean Leader Is Said to Pick a Son as Heir |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/03/world/asia/03korea.html |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |work=The New York Times |first1=David E. |last1=Sanger |first2=Mark |last2=Mazzetti |last3=Choe |first3=Sang-Hun |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130411030027/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/03/world/asia/03korea.html |archive-date=11 April 2013 |url-status=live}}

Without citing a specific time, Pyongyang notified both Washington, D.C. and Beijing of the test about an hour before the actual detonation, which occurred around 10:00 Korea Standard Time (KST) Monday;{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090525 |title=U.N. council condemns North Korea nuclear test |access-date=25 May 2009 |first=Jonathan |last=Thatcher |date=25 May 2009 |work=Reuters |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090526125639/https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090525 |archive-date=26 May 2009 |url-status=live}} the U.S. State Department promptly contacted the four other six-party talks members.{{cite web |url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2009/05/124051.htm |title=Japan: North Korea Nuclear Test (Taken Question) |date=26 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-date=12 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912151427/https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2009/05/124051.htm |url-status=live }}

The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) released an announcement claiming, in part, that:

{{blockquote|The Democratic People's Republic of Korea successfully conducted one more underground nuclear test on May 25 as part of the measures to bolster up its nuclear deterrent for self-defence in every way as requested by its scientists and technicians. The current nuclear test was safely conducted on a new higher level in terms of its explosive power and technology of its control and the results of the test helped satisfactorily settle the scientific and technological problems arising in further increasing the power of nuclear weapons and steadily developing nuclear technology.{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/25/world/asia/25nuke-text.html |title=Text of the North Korean Announcement of Nuclear Test |author=KCNA |work=The New York Times |date=24 May 2009 |access-date=25 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121214214608/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/25/world/asia/25nuke-text.html |archive-date=14 December 2012 |url-status=live}}}}

This was interpreted as referring to the disputes over the low yield of the 2006 test.{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/26/world/asia/26nuke.html |title=North Korean Nuclear Claim Draws Global Criticism |last=Choe |first=Sang-Hun |work=The New York Times |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=25 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207070146/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/26/world/asia/26nuke.html |archive-date=7 February 2012 |url-status=live}}

South Korea and Japan reported seismic activity at 09:50 KST (00:50 UTC). The United States Geological Survey reported a magnitude 4.7 earthquake at a depth of zero and put the center of the tremor about {{convert|70|km}} northwest of Kimchaek and {{convert|375|km}} northeast of Pyongyang, within a few kilometres of the country's 2006 nuclear test site.{{cite web |title=Earthquake Details: Magnitude 4.7 – NORTH KOREA |url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eqinthenews/2009/us2009hbaf/ |work=Earthquake Hazards Program |publisher=United States Geological Survey |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=26 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528075047/http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/us2009hbaf.php |archive-date=28 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}[http://cnnwire.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/24/earthquake-shakes-north-korea/ Earthquake shakes North Korea] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528112342/http://cnnwire.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/24/earthquake-shakes-north-korea/ |date=28 May 2009 }}. CNN. 24 May 2009. The Japan Meteorological Agency measured the seismic activity at magnitude 5.3.{{cite news |title=NKorea says it conducted 2nd nuclear test |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iURO8fOyWVOA0ytFlaAGuC9F7R9wD98D2P8G0 |publisher=The Associated Press |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 }}{{dead link|date=June 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} The Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources reported seismic activity in the same area but far stronger than in 2006.

The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed it had detected a nuclear detonation in North Korea and was analysing the data to determine the yield.{{cite news |title=Russian Defence Ministry confirmed that North Korea conducted a nuclear test |url=http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=13973189 |publisher=ITAR-TASS |date=25 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530201503/http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=13973189 |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=dead |access-date=11 June 2009}}{{cite news |url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/North-Korea-Nuclear-Weapon-Test-Country-Confirms-Trial-Was-A-Success-South-Korea-Calls-Meeting/Article/200905415287844 |title=Russia 'Confirms' North Korea Nuclear Test |publisher=Sky News |date=25 May 2009 |author=BSKYB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530203317/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/North-Korea-Nuclear-Weapon-Test-Country-Confirms-Trial-Was-A-Success-South-Korea-Calls-Meeting/Article/200905415287844 |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=dead |access-date=11 June 2009}} Geophysical Service of the Russian Academy of Sciences has registered underground nuclear explosion conducted in North Korea on 25 May 2009. Registration time of this explosion was 0:54 am. GMT (4:54 a.m. Moscow time) with magnitude 5.0.{{cite web |url=http://www.ceme.gsras.ru/cgi-bin/info_quakee.pl?mode=1&id=125 |title=Information messages about earthquakes |access-date=21 July 2014 |archive-date=28 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128042838/http://www.ceme.gsras.ru/cgi-bin/info_quakee.pl?mode=1&id=125 |url-status=live }}

In China, tremors were felt in the prefecture of Yanbian, which borders North Korea, and forced students in some local schools to be evacuated.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}} The test is believed to have taken place at Mantapsan in the vicinity of P'unggyeri ({{Korean|hangul=풍계리|labels=no}}), which was the site of the nuclear test held in 2006.{{cite news |url=http://www.wowkorea.jp/news/Korea/2009/0525/10057746.html |title=気象庁「北朝鮮・豊渓里でM4．5の人工地震」 |publisher=AISE Inc. |date=25 May 2009 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725052714/http://www.wowkorea.jp/news/Korea/2009/0525/10057746.html |archive-date=25 July 2011 |url-status=live |access-date=11 June 2009}}

Analysts have generally agreed that the nuclear test was successful, despite uncertainty of the exact yield.{{citation needed|date=May 2023}}

The U.S. intelligence community assessed that North Korea "probably" had conducted a nuclear test with a yield of "a few kilotons".{{cite news |last=Charles |first=Deborah |author2=Tabassum Zakaria |author3=Sandra Maler |title=North Korea's May nuclear test few kilotons: U.S. |publisher=Reuters |date=15 June 2009 |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE55E5BA20090615 |access-date=15 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090618030531/https://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE55E5BA20090615 |archive-date=18 June 2009 |url-status=live}}

The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization Preparatory Commission assessed the yield at only slightly larger than the 2006 test, which was one kiloton. Based on readings from 23 seismic stations, the Preparatory Commission estimated the blast to have a seismic magnitude of 4.52, corresponding to an explosive yield of 2.4 kilotons, compared to a seismic magnitude of 4.1, corresponding to a yield of 0.8 kilotons, for the 2006 blast.Ramstad, Evan and Jay Solomon, Peter Spiegel, "[https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB124322074782250897 Korean Blast Draws Outrage] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074214/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB124322074782250897 |date=25 May 2024 }}" Wall Street Journal, 26 May 2009. Accessed 11 June 2009. [https://web.archive.org/web/20090727224352/http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124322074782250897.html Archived] 2009-08-02.{{cite web |url=http://www.ctbto.org/press-centre/press-releases/2009/ctbtos-initial-findings-on-the-dprks-2009-announced-nuclear-test/ |title=CTBTO's initial findings on the DPRK's 2009 announced nuclear test, CTBTO Press Release, CTBTO Press Release – 25 May 2009 |access-date=17 April 2012 |archive-date=20 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120520123432/http://www.ctbto.org/press-centre/press-releases/2009/ctbtos-initial-findings-on-the-dprks-2009-announced-nuclear-test/ |url-status=live }}

Russia placed the yield of the test significantly higher at 10 to 20 kilotons. This was approximately the yield of the Fat Man and Trinity bombs developed by the United States during World War II.{{cite web |last=Park |first=Jeffrey |title=The North Korean nuclear test: What the seismic data says |publisher=Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists |date=26 May 2009 |url=http://thebulletin.org/web-edition/features/the-north-korean-nuclear-test-what-the-seismic-data-says |access-date=28 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528161909/http://www.thebulletin.org/web-edition/features/the-north-korean-nuclear-test-what-the-seismic-data-says |archive-date=28 May 2009 |url-status=dead}} However, the Russians had also previously estimated a far higher yield of 5 to 10 kilotons when other sources estimated a yield of 0.5 to 0.9 kilotons in the 2006 test as well.{{cite web |url=http://www.nautilus.org/fora/security/0689HayesKang.html |title=Technical Analysis of the DPRK Nuclear Test |author=Jungmin Kang |author2=Peter Hayes |date=20 October 2006 |access-date=26 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100403072638/http://www.nautilus.org/fora/security/0689HayesKang.html |archive-date=3 April 2010 |url-status=dead}}

Defense Minister Lee Sang-Hee of South Korea said that more data were needed but that the yield might be between 1 and 20 kilotons.

Analyst Martin Kalinowski at the University of Hamburg estimated the yield at being from 3 to 8 kilotons, still a very successful test when compared with the 2006 test.{{cite web |url=http://www.armscontrolwonk.com/file_download/177/Kalinowski.pdf |title=Second nuclear test conducted by North Korea on 25 May 2009 |date=25 May 2009 |last=Kalinowski |first=Martin |publisher=Carl Friedrich von Weizsäcker Centre for Science and Peace Research, Universität Hamburg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530033729/http://www.armscontrolwonk.com/file_download/177/Kalinowski.pdf |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=dead |access-date=11 June 2009}}

Hans M. Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists cautioned that "early news media reports about a 'Hiroshima-size' nuclear explosion seem to be overblown". The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists asserted that the blast was more powerful than the 2006 test, though put the yield between 2 and 6 kilotons, but likely less than 4 kilotons and far short of a Hiroshima-type device. The group concluded that the bomb failed to detonate correctly, but even so the potential of this weapon should not be dismissed.

However, after the subsequent nuclear test in 2013, the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources, a state-run geology research institute in Germany, estimated the yield ranging from a minimum of 5 kilotons to the maximum of 12 kilotons and the 2006 test ranging from minimum of 700 tons to the maximum of 2 kilotons instead with relevant statistics.{{cite web |title=BGR registered putative third North Korean nuclear test |url=http://translate.google.com.hk/translate?hl=zh-CN&sl=de&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bgr.bund.de%2FDE%2FThemen%2FErdbeben-Gefaehrdungsanalysen%2FSeismologie%2FKernwaffenteststopp%2FKernexplosionen%2FKernex%2Fnordkorea_20130212.html |date=15 February 2013 |access-date=2 March 2013 |archive-date=28 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128042837/http://translate.google.com.hk/translate?hl=zh-CN&sl=de&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bgr.bund.de%2FDE%2FThemen%2FErdbeben-Gefaehrdungsanalysen%2FSeismologie%2FKernwaffenteststopp%2FKernexplosionen%2FKernex%2Fnordkorea_20130212.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=BGR registriert vermutlichen dritten nordkoreanischen Kernwaffentest |url=http://www.bgr.bund.de/DE/Themen/Erdbeben-Gefaehrdungsanalysen/Seismologie/Kernwaffenteststopp/Kernexplosionen/Kernex/nordkorea_20130212.html |date=15 February 2013 |access-date=2 March 2013 |archive-date=18 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160318025658/http://www.bgr.bund.de/DE/Themen/Erdbeben-Gefaehrdungsanalysen/Seismologie/Kernwaffenteststopp/Kernexplosionen/Kernex/nordkorea_20130212.html |url-status=live }}

Similarly, the University of Science and Technology of China has estimated the yield of this test to be at 7kT with an error margin of 1.9kT (5.1kT to 8.9kT){{cite web |url=http://seis.ustc.edu.cn/en/201609/t20160909_253323.html |title=温联星研究组 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919072026/http://seis.ustc.edu.cn/en/201609/t20160909_253323.html |archive-date=19 September 2016}} while presenting their estimation for the nuclear test on 9 September 2016.

In June 2009, the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) announced that no radionuclides had been detected that could be associated with the 25 May event. At the time of the test, the CTBTO global network included 40 radionuclide sampling stations. In addition, the United States reported that no radionuclides were detected by aircraft over the Sea of Japan (East Sea of Korea), and South Korea also reported that no radionuclides were detected. By contrast, radionuclides were detected in at least two locations after the 2006 event. Lack of detection does not mean that the event was non-nuclear: it is reasonable for a nuclear test with this yield, buried deep enough in the appropriate rock, to not yield remotely detectable radionuclides, but it makes it more difficult to prove whether the test was nuclear.Science, vol 324, 19 June 2009, page 1499: "[http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/summary/324/5934/1499-a Verification Experts Puzzled Over North Korea's Nuclear Test] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090628124325/http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/summary/324/5934/1499-a |date=28 June 2009 }}" by Daniel CleryJonathan Medalia, "[https://fas.org/sgp/crs/nuke/R41160.pdf North Korea's 2009 Nuclear Test: Containment, Monitoring, Implications] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074212/https://fas.org/sgp/crs/nuke/R41160.pdf |date=25 May 2024 }}", Congressional Research Service (2 April 2010).

On the same day, North Korea also conducted short-range surface-to-air missile tests.{{cite news |url=http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia-pacific/2009/05/20095270458302529.html |title=North Korea defies global outcry |publisher=Al Jazeera English |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530075208/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia-pacific/2009/05/20095270458302529.html |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=live}} The number of fired missiles was first reported as three, but corrected to two by the South Korean defense ministry on 27 May 2009.{{cite news |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/27/0401000000AEN20090527005000315.HTML |title=N. Korea Monday fired two missiles, not three: ministry |agency=Yonhap News Agency |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928044950/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/27/0401000000AEN20090527005000315.HTML |archive-date=28 September 2011 |url-status=live}} The first missile had a range of {{cvt|130|km}}.{{cite news |url=http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/SEO175027.htm |title=North Korea follows nuclear test with missile launch |publisher=Reuters AlertNet |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=26 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090531002940/http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/SEO175027.htm |archive-date=31 May 2009 |url-status=live}} The South Korean news agency Yonhap cited military officials as saying that the launches seemed to be aimed at keeping U.S. and Japanese surveillance planes away from the site.{{cite news |url=https://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090525/ap_on_re_as/as_koreas_nuclear |title=Defying world powers, N. Korea conducts nuke test |author=Jean H. Lee |publisher=The Associated Press |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=26 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528200244/http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090525/ap_on_re_as/as_koreas_nuclear |archive-date=28 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}

On 26 May 2009, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported, citing officials, that North Korea fired three more short-range missiles off an east-coast base, one ground-to-ship missile and one surface-to-air missile.{{cite news |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/26/0401000000AEN20090526007400315.HTML |title=N. Korea launches missiles amid tension over nuclear test |author=Sam Kim |agency=Yonhap News Agency |date=26 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-date=12 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912144407/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/26/0401000000AEN20090526007400315.HTML |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/27/0401000000AEN20090527001300315.HTML |title=N. Korea launches additional missile into East Sea: official |agency=Yonhap News Agency |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-date=12 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912144419/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/27/0401000000AEN20090527001300315.HTML |url-status=live }} The move came as UN diplomats began work on a resolution to punish North Korea for its underground nuclear test.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8067711.stm |title=North Korea 'fires more missiles' |publisher=BBC |date=26 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090529120258/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8067711.stm |archive-date=29 May 2009 |url-status=live}}

By 27 May 2009, at least five short range missiles were launched by North Korea. A military spokesman quoted by official media said that North Korea could no longer guarantee the safety of shipping off its west coast, suggesting a missile could also be fired in that direction.{{cite news |url=http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/North-Korea-Has-Launched-Another-Missile-Since-Testing-A-Nuclear-Weapon-In-Pyangyong/Article/200905415289598?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Article_Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15289598_North_Korea_Has_Launched_Another_Missile_Since_Testing_A_Nuclear_Weapon_In_Pyangyong |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716045850/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/North-Korea-Has-Launched-Another-Missile-Since-Testing-A-Nuclear-Weapon-In-Pyangyong/Article/200905415289598?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Article_Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15289598_North_Korea_Has_Launched_Another_Missile_Since_Testing_A_Nuclear_Weapon_In_Pyangyong |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 July 2012 |title=North Korea Threats 'Won't Win Attention' |publisher=Sky News |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009}}

Another short-range missile was fired off North Korea's east coast on 28 May 2009.{{cite news |url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0529/korea.html |title=N Korea fires short-range missile |publisher=RTÉ Ireland |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090601055137/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0529/korea.html |archive-date=1 June 2009 |url-status=dead}}{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/pyongyang-raises-stakes-with-another-missile-test-1693161.html |title=Pyongyang raises stakes with another missile test |work=The Independent |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090531003904/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/pyongyang-raises-stakes-with-another-missile-test-1693161.html |archive-date=31 May 2009 |url-status=dead |location=London |last1=Lee |first1=Jin-Woo}}

On 29 May 2009, U.S. officials said that satellite photos revealed vehicle activity at two sites in North Korea suggesting that North Korean military might be preparing to launch a long-range ballistic missile.{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iINuv9D2sTgAI4qgcH5lbnVDzphw |title=Activity spotted at two NKorea missile sites: US officials |agency=AFP |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-date=12 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110312131246/http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iINuv9D2sTgAI4qgcH5lbnVDzphw |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iURO8fOyWVOA0ytFlaAGuC9F7R9wD98G6MI05 |title=US officials: North Korea may launch new missiles |agency=Associated Press |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603033941/https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iURO8fOyWVOA0ytFlaAGuC9F7R9wD98G6MI05 |archive-date=3 June 2009 |url-status=dead}} This was reaffirmed on 1 June 2009 by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates who said at a news conference with his Philippine counterpart during a brief visit to Manila "We have seen some signs that they may be doing something with another Taepodong-2 missile, but at this point it's not clear what they're doing".{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB124386006995372071 |title=Gates See Evidence of Another Long-Range North Korea Missile |date=1 June 2009 |access-date=1 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090707102655/http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124386006995372071.html |archive-date=7 July 2009 |url-status=live |work=The Wall Street Journal |first=Peter |last=Spiegel}}

Yonhap news agency reported on 2 June 2009 that North Korea was readying as many as three medium-range missiles (according to some analysts, Rodong missiles){{cite web |url=http://www.globalsecuritynewswire.org/gsn/nw_20090602_4862.php |title=North Korea Prepares Multiple Missiles For Launch |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090607232317/http://www.globalsecuritynewswire.org/gsn/nw_20090602_4862.php |archive-date=7 June 2009 |url-status=live}} at a missile base in Anbyon region, Gangwon Province, northeast of the capital of Pyongyang. In addition, a South Korean defence ministry spokesman said that signs that North Korea was preparing to fire an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) had been detected.{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601080&sid=as2nKYrXBIo4&refer=asia |title=South Korea Deploys Warship as North Readies Missiles (Update1) |publisher=Bloomberg |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-date=4 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104144440/https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601080&sid=as2nKYrXBIo4&refer=asia |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iE0PmC9-SH35q7qnLpvRfQu0G-NA |title=NKorea seen readying long-range missile test |agency=AFP |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090605031940/https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iE0PmC9-SH35q7qnLpvRfQu0G-NA |archive-date=5 June 2009 |url-status=dead}} verifying US defense officials' reports and Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates's statement made on 1 June. North Korea apparently has moved the ICBM to a new base in Dongchang-ri along its west coast and a launch could take place in one or two weeks, according to Yonhap.{{cite news |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/06/02/22/0401000000AEN20090602009400320F.HTML |title=N. Korea gearing up to test-fire missiles on both coasts |author=Sam Kim |agency=Yonhap News Agency |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-date=28 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928045105/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/06/02/22/0401000000AEN20090602009400320F.HTML |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/06/01/0401000000AEN20090601010600320.HTML |title=N. Korea may launch ballistic missile after one or two weeks: official |agency=Yonhap News Agency |date=1 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928045134/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/06/01/0401000000AEN20090601010600320.HTML |archive-date=28 September 2011 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iURO8fOyWVOA0ytFlaAGuC9F7R9wD98IH2I80 |title=NKorea prepares missiles; South beefs up defenses |agency=Associated Press |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009}}{{dead link|date=June 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}

The North Korean news agency KCNA confirmed the test as "successful". The agency also said the test was "aimed at strengthening its self-defense nuclear deterrent in every way". South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported citing KCNA that citizens of Pyongyang held a rally to celebrate the country's second successful nuclear test on 26 May.{{cite news |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/27/0401000000AEN20090527003800315.HTML |title=N. Koreans rally in celebration of nuclear test |author=Kim Hyun |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-date=15 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120215081954/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2009/05/27/0401000000AEN20090527003800315.HTML |url-status=live }}

In general the International reactions to the 2009 North Korean nuclear test have been almost uniformly negative.

{{see also|Six-party talks}}

• South Korea: President Lee Myung-bak called an emergency cabinet meeting.Kim, Jack. [https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE54O08120090525 North Korea conducts nuclear test: report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122020650/https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE54O08120090525 |date=22 November 2020 }}. Reuters. 24 May 2009. The decision was made to join the Proliferation Security Initiative, a move which the North has repeatedly warned would be construed as a declaration of war.{{cite news |title=S. Korea to Join US-Led Anti-Proliferation Drill |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2009/05/113_45671.html |work=The Korea Times |date=26 May 2009 |access-date=27 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530081540/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2009/05/113_45671.html |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=live}} The ROK-US Combined Forces Command raised its surveillance condition from WATCHCON3 (important indications of threat) to WATCHCON2 (vital indications of threat).[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8071175.stm Alert level raised on North Korea] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126135324/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8071175.stm |date=26 January 2021 }}. BBC. 28 May 2009.Sang-Hun, Choe. [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/oplan-5027-2.htm OPLAN 5027 Major Theater War – West] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090517155140/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/oplan-5027-2.htm |date=17 May 2009 }}. GlobalSecurity.org[https://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/29/world/asia/29korea.html?ref=global-home South Korea and U.S. Raise Alert Level] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725121146/https://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/29/world/asia/29korea.html?ref=global-home |date=25 July 2018 }}. NYT. 27 May 2009. President Lee Myung-bak made another statement at the beginning of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit saying "We will continue to work to have North Korea observe UN Security Council resolutions".{{cite news |url=http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/asiapacific/news/article_1480666.php/South_Korea_asks_ASEAN_for_support_in_nuclear_dispute_ |title=South Korea asks ASEAN for support in nuclear dispute |publisher=Deutsche Presse Agentur |date=1 June 2009 |access-date=1 June 2009 |author=James Wray and Ulf Stabe |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907093721/http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/asiapacific/news/article_1480666.php/South_Korea_asks_ASEAN_for_support_in_nuclear_dispute_ |archive-date=7 September 2012 |url-status=dead}} On 27 May, North Korea's permanent military mission to the north–south joint security area reacted to S. Korea's decision to join the Proliferation Security Initiative saying it no longer is bound to the Korean War armistice and will militarily respond to any foreign attempt to inspect its ships.{{cite news |url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/05/27/UPI-NewsTrack-TopNews/UPI-66341243426271/ |title=S. Korea joins PSI, North irate |publisher=United Press International |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=30 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605052637/http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/05/27/UPI-NewsTrack-TopNews/UPI-66341243426271/ |archive-date=5 June 2011 |url-status=live}}
• People's Republic of China: The Foreign Ministry released a statement: "The DPRK ignored universal opposition of the international community and once more conducted the nuclear test. The Chinese government is resolutely opposed to it". The statement also strongly demanded that North Korea "return to the tracks of the six-party talks".{{cite news |title=Chinese gov't "resolutely opposes" DPRK's nuclear test |url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-05/25/content_11433096.htm |publisher=Xinhua News Agency |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=25 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528094603/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-05/25/content_11433096.htm |archive-date=28 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}
• Japan: Japan said the test was "unacceptable" and a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. It was also considering tightening sanctions in response.[https://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE54O0SS20090525 FACTBOX: Reaction to North Korea's nuclear test] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122013058/https://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE54O0SS20090525 |date=22 November 2020 }}, Reuters, 25 May 2009{{cite web |url=http://www.mofa.go.jp/region/europe/v4_joint0905.html |title=V4+Japan Foreign Ministers' Meeting: Joint Press Statement |author=Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=28 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530182519/http://www.mofa.go.jp/region/europe/v4_joint0905.html |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=live}}
• Russia: The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that "The latest steps of the DPRK escalate tensions in Northeast Asia and endanger regional security and stability" and violated UN Security Council Resolution 1718, but added that "We still think that the nuclear problem of the Korean Peninsula may be resolved only at the six-nation negotiations".{{cite news |title=FM: Russia urges DPRK to demonstrate responsibility |url=http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90853/6665383.html |publisher=People's Daily Online |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=25 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090531020858/http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90853/6665383.html |archive-date=31 May 2009 |url-status=live}} Natalya Timakova, the Press Attaché to the Russian President said Russia "is seriously concerned" about North Korea's nuclear test and that "Russian competent services express regret and voice serious concern about North Korea's nuclear test in the area adjacent to the Russian Federation".{{cite news |url=http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=13976466&PageNum=0 |title=RF seriously concerned about N Korea's nuke test |agency=ITAR-TASS |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=28 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530201517/http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=13976466&PageNum=0 |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}
• United States: The White House condemned the test, saying "North Korea is directly and recklessly challenging the international community. The danger posed by North Korea's threatening activities warrants action by the international community."[http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/05/24/nkorea.nuclear/index.html North Korea's second nuclear test stirs outrage] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090526115728/http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/05/24/nkorea.nuclear/index.html |date=26 May 2009 }}. CNN. 25 May 2009. Retrieved 25 May 2009. President Barack Obama's official statement promised that North Korea would not find "international acceptance" unless it complied.[https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE54O0ST20090525?virtualBrandChannel=10531 TEXT: Obama statement on North Korea nuclear test] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122104226/https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE54O0ST20090525?virtualBrandChannel=10531 |date=22 November 2020 }}. Reuters. 25 May 2009. He also said that the country's actions "pose a grave threat to the peace and stability of the world".{{cite news |title=Obama: North Korean nuclear test 'a grave threat' |publisher=CNN |date=25 May 2009 |url=http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/05/25/us.north.korea.react/index.html |access-date=25 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090527031103/http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/05/25/us.north.korea.react/index.html |archive-date=27 May 2009 |url-status=live}} Susan Rice, US ambassador to the UN, added that, "North Korea needs to understand that its actions have consequences" and that they would "pay a price for their action", in the form of further sanctions.[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8068619.stm North Korea 'will pay' over tests] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528013056/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8068619.stm |date=28 May 2009 }} BBC. 26 May 2009. Retrieved 26 May 2009. Robert Gates, the US Defense Secretary, delivered a stark warning to North Korea, on 30 May 2009 "The policy of the United States has not changed," he said. "Our goal is complete and verifiable denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, and we will not accept North Korea as a nuclear weapons state."{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/5413447/Leaders-live-in-luxury-while-North-Koreans-starve-to-pay-for-nuclear-bomb.html |title=Leaders live in luxury while North Koreans starve to pay for nuclear bomb |work=The Telegraph |date=31 May 2009 |access-date=31 May 2009 |location=London |first1=Leonard |last1=Doyle |first2=David |last2=Blair |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090602124829/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/5413447/Leaders-live-in-luxury-while-North-Koreans-starve-to-pay-for-nuclear-bomb.html |archive-date=2 June 2009 |url-status=live}}

News of the tests immediately affected South Korean markets, sending the main KOSPI share index down 4%, while the South Korean won dropped by 1% against the US$ on the day of the nuclear test, 25 May. The yen fell to 95.10 per dollar from its level of 94.78 on 22 May.{{cite web |title=Yen Falls as North Korea Holds Nuclear Test, Launches Missiles |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aH08mbkL5C9s&refer=japan |publisher=Bloomberg L.P. |date=25 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-date=25 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074217/https://www.bloomberg.com/politics?pid=20601101&refer=japan&sid=aH08mbkL5C9s |url-status=live }}

On 28 May, North Korea threatened to end the Korean War armistice, stating that "the Korean peninsula will go back to a state of war", whereupon the joint military command of South Korea and the United States increased its surveillance alert level from WATCHCON 3 to WATCHCON 2, the second-highest level of surveillance alert. However, the five-stage combat alert level remained at DEFCON 4, the second-lowest level.{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/5397767/South-Korea-and-US-troops-raise-alert-level-over-North-Korean-threat.html |title=South Korea and US troops raise alert level over North Korean threat |author=Malcolm Moore |work=The Daily Telegraph |date=28 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530013214/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/5397767/South-Korea-and-US-troops-raise-alert-level-over-North-Korean-threat.html |archive-date=30 May 2009 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/newshome/5611713 |title=U.S. and South Korea raise military alert on North |agency=Reuters |publisher=Yahoo!7 News |date=28 May 2009 |access-date=20 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090531013518/http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/newshome/5611713 |archive-date=31 May 2009 |url-status=dead}} Russia undertook security measures in case the war of nerves on the Korean peninsula erupted into a nuclear war.{{cite news |url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3722406,00.html |title=Russia fears Korea conflict could go nuclear |agency=Reuters |publisher=Ynetnews |date=27 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090529081248/http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0%2C7340%2CL-3722406%2C00.html |archive-date=29 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}

North Korea also threatened on 29 May to attack South Korean and US warships near its coast if its sovereignty were infringed.Koring, Paul. [https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/north-korea-threatens-to-attack-us-warships/article1156833/ North Korea threatens to attack U.S. warships – The Globe and Mail] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927115846/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/north-korea-threatens-to-attack-us-warships/article1156833/ |date=27 September 2016 }}. The Globe and Mail. 29 May 2009. In Japan a policy debate ensued regarding strengthening its military up to and including the possibility of an independent pre-emptive strike capability and even nuclear armaments, subjects hitherto taboo.Ito, Shingo. [http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=961802&lang=eng_news&cate_img=140.jpg&cate_rss=news_Opinion North Korea threat triggers calls for stronger Japanese military] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924033410/http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=961802&lang=eng_news&cate_img=140.jpg&cate_rss=news_Opinion |date=24 September 2015 }}. AFP. 29 May 2009.{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aj8rDljD4nO8 |title=North Korea Tests Lift Lid on Japan's Nuclear 'Taboo' (Update1) |publisher=Bloomberg |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=29 May 2009 |archive-date=25 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074219/https://www.bloomberg.com/politics?pid=20601101&sid=aj8rDljD4nO8 |url-status=live }}

On 30 May, the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence confirmed that a VC10 tanker plane, which is used for air-to-air refueling, had been sent to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan to help support the investigations, led by the U.S. military, to determine the power of the nuclear explosion and the type of material that was used. A Ministry spokesman said: "Following the recent events in North Korea and to support the international community's efforts during this time of increased political tension, we can confirm that the UK is supporting in the associated verification efforts".{{cite news |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6394392.ece |title=UK military aid Korean nuclear investigation |publisher=the Times Online |date=30 May 2009 |access-date=30 May 2009 |location=London |first=Simon |last=Alford |archive-date=25 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074218/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/ |url-status=dead }} On the same day, a U.S. F-22 fighter jet arrived on Kadena Air Base, the first of twelve F-22s and approximately 280 Langley Air Force Base Airmen from the 94th Fighter Squadron, along with members of the Virginia Air National Guard's 192nd Fighter Wing, that are being deployed to Kadena Air Base as part of a theatre security package.{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE54T0V220090530 |title=Nuclear N.Korea won't change Japan defense: minister |publisher=Reuters |date=30 May 2009 |access-date=31 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090602035024/https://www.reuters.com/article/newsMaps/idUSTRE54T0V220090530 |archive-date=2 June 2009 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.af.mil/News/story/id/123151680/ |title=Airmen, F-22s support Pacific presence mission |publisher=U.S. Air Force |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=31 May 2009 |author=2nd Lt. Georganne Schultz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090808220518/http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123151680 |archive-date=8 August 2009 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest%2BNews/Asia/Story/A1Story20090531-145071.html |title=F-22 deployed to Japan amid tensions |publisher=AsiaOne Singapore Press |date=31 May 2009 |access-date=1 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090606075400/http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest%2BNews/Asia/Story/A1Story20090531-145071.html |archive-date=6 June 2009 |url-status=dead}}

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Jim Steinberg accompanied by Stephen Bosworth, the U.S. special envoy on North Korea, led a U.S. delegation to Asia on 1 June 2009 to consult regional forces on how to respond to North Korea's latest nuclear test. The delegation also includes Stuart Levy, the Treasury under-secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, and Admiral James Winnefeld of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090531 |title=U.S., allies prepare for tougher response to N.Korea |publisher=Reuters |date=31 May 2009 |access-date=31 May 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090601100912/https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSSEO14165620090531 |archive-date=1 June 2009 |url-status=live}}

Japan approved on 2 June 2009 plans for a satellite missile early warning system as part of a new space policy document, a year after Japan dropped a decades-old ban on military use of space with some ruling party lawmakers suggesting Japan should inspect North Korean ships, in the wake of reports that N. Korea was preparing to fire more mid-range missiles.{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE5511T220090602 |title=Japan plans missile early warning system |publisher=Reuters |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090605165308/https://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE5511T220090602 |archive-date=5 June 2009 |url-status=live}} On the same day, as a response to the increased activity of the N. Korean military and after reports that North Koreans have stepped up naval drills near the western sea border, the site of deadly skirmishes between the two Koreas in 1999 and 2002, South Korea deployed a high-speed naval vessel, the Yoon Youngha guided missile patrol boat, to the area and vowed to "punish" any attacking forces.{{cite news |url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/06/02/S-Korean-guided-missile-ship-deployed/UPI-18271243919538/ |title=S. Korean guided-missile ship deployed |publisher=United Press International |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090609001336/http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/06/02/S-Korean-guided-missile-ship-deployed/UPI-18271243919538/ |archive-date=9 June 2009 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5il7zZMTuw4rY-6Sl42dzqdP0q8nQ |title=N.Korea starts assembling long-range missile: report |agency=AFP |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090607054340/https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5il7zZMTuw4rY-6Sl42dzqdP0q8nQ |archive-date=7 June 2009 |url-status=dead}}

After the North Korean nuclear test the U.S. has approved the sale of a number of weapon systems to South Korea, including GBU-28 "bunker buster" bombs, SM-2 Standard surface-to-air Missiles and F-16 Block 32 Aircraft Upgrades improving the aircraft and increasing the South Korean military's operational abilities.{{cite news |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jAxRpXvt-V_BwPRYw9gqhfEbQAYw |title=US to sell 'bunker-buster' bombs to SKorea: official |agency=AFP |date=2 June 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090608034511/https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jAxRpXvt-V_BwPRYw9gqhfEbQAYw |archive-date=8 June 2009 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2009/ROK_09-23.pdf |title=Republic of Korea – F-16 Block 32 Aircraft Upgrades |publisher=Defense Security Cooperation Agency |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |author=UGOODSON |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527065144/http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2009/ROK_09-23.pdf |archive-date=27 May 2011 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2009/ROK_09-22.pdf |title=Republic of Korea – SM-2 Standard Missiles |publisher=Defense Security Cooperation Agency |date=29 May 2009 |access-date=2 June 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527065207/http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2009/ROK_09-22.pdf |archive-date=27 May 2011}} The South Korean military has prepared plans for a counter-attack in the event of a first strike by North Korea.{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-korea-north-sb-idUSTRE5560CE20090607 |title=S.Korea makes plans to counter North missile |publisher=Reuters |date=7 June 2009 |access-date=28 August 2020 |archive-date=22 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122014332/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-korea-north-sb-idUSTRE5560CE20090607 |url-status=live }}

{{Main|United Nations Security Council Resolution 1874}}

The United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 1874 in response to the test, imposing further economic sanctions on the country and authorising UN member states to inspect North Korean cargo and destroy any that may be involved in the nuclear weapons program.[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8097370.stm UN toughens North Korea sanctions] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101100713/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8097370.stm |date=1 November 2021 }}, BBC News Online, 12 June 2009 In response to the sanctions, an unidentified spokesman for the North Korean Foreign Ministry released a statement through the official Korean Central News Agency saying that the country would begin to "weaponize" its plutonium stockpiles.{{cite news |last=Fackler |first=Martin |title=North Korea to 'Weaponize' Its Plutonium |publisher=NYT |date=13 June 2009 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/14/world/asia/14korea.html?hp |access-date=13 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531140253/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/14/world/asia/14korea.html?hp |archive-date=31 May 2013 |url-status=live}} The spokesman also said the country "will start uranium enrichment" and would view any US-led attempts to "blockade" it as an "act of war".{{cite news |title=North Korea in plutonium threat |publisher=BBC |date=13 June 2009 |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8098484.stm |access-date=13 June 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090616093128/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8098484.stm |archive-date=16 June 2009 |url-status=live}} The statement was said to have lacked the usual bitterness of most North Korean statements.

{{Commons category|2009 North Korean nuclear test}}

• List of North Korean nuclear tests
• 2006 North Korean nuclear test
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• January 2016 North Korean nuclear test
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• Six-party talks

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Nuclear test

2009

Category:Underground nuclear weapons testing

Category:May 2009 in Asia