North Korean Missile Launch

For a long time now North Korea has been experimenting with Nuclear weapons. Until recently most of their nuclear rockets have failed. Although, they have yet to master long-range, multi-stage missile technology, this December the Unha-3 rocket was launched from North Korea. Although, they have yet to master long-range, multi-stage missile technology.They have claimed that the missile was only a satellite.  Some consider the launch of this missile to be a publicity stunt or a commemoration to Kim Jong Il  as their missile testing does not usually happen in December. Others see this as a real threat. They believe that North Korea may have gotten external help in accomplishing this missile launch. In response to this launch, the U.N. condemned the rocket launch and increased the sanctions on North Korea. As of yesterday North Korea stated there may be "strong physical counter-measures" against South Korea due to these increased sanctions. In response to the safety of the U.S., Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta said "They have the capability, frankly, to conduct these tests in a way that makes it very difficult to determine whether or not they are doing it," and the U.S. " is fully prepared" to deal with any attack. I am not really sure what to think about this. North Korea could simply be testing missiles, or they could be readying a threat. Both seem possible. As of now, we will have to wait for this story to develop to be sure.