What is the time frame for a-d? If the NK strategy fails, what's their next move, prodding the Iranians?
Beijing should take the gloves off when playing chess (or should I say, Go?). Nobody's fooled.
If (a)~(d) are executed, it could be next year. This year, they will work on subtly spooking the electorate and opposition hopefuls, creating inflaming political clashes, and some inter-Korean hoopla, to sway the momentum the other way. Just to the onset of severe political strife.
If their strategy backfires, NK regime could be in political crisis. Internal power struggle may start in earnest. Kim Jong-il may have to do something even more drastic to head it off. In short, things could get really tense.