[Eric in the Ozarks]

Nothing happens in NK without the PRC's approval.

[NJ_gent]

"Nothing happens in NK without the PRC's approval."

This was once true, but not anymore. Please see my #13 for details. Also, take a look at the massive military build-up of Chinese military forces along the North Korean border for further evidence that China is unable to continue its control over North Korea. Officially, those forces are there to help control rampant illegal immigration from refugees fleeing North Korea. I'm not sure what kinds of immigrants they've got coming out of North Korea, but if China honestly needs several tank and artillery divisions as well as air power (bombers and fighters) to stop them, then there's something seriously wrong.