What about Korea?

Strange things are happening in Korea. First, it was the unified entrance of the two Koreas in the Winter Olympics. Then it was the ratcheting up of pressure from the US govt and the latest version of the Kims threatening the US with nuclear war, shooting off rockets.

Then the unexpected happened. The leaders of North and South Korea had a meeting that produced symbols of peace making. Namely, that the two Koreas will end their official war and upgrade their armistice to a peace treaty.

What is going on? Is Pres Trump's rattling Kim's cage changing minds? YES AND NO.

North Korea is China's creation. Ultimately, China has the influence. And China is not crazy about having a radioactive peninsula next door. In fact, that is happening to a limited extent, because North Korea's nuclear testing site has collapsed and contaminants have gotten out. But the real reason China is putting the kabash on Kim is that China does not want the US to have an excuse to keep military forces near its border. Besides, China has big plans (the 'one belt, one road') that would tie a lot of countries to China economically. North Korea will not be allowed to interfere.

As to the side issues, those have a lot of promise for the people of Korea. No telling how that will shake out. The North stopping testing nukes and shooting off rockets is a good start. Let's see what the Donald can negotiate.