Russia has information on North Korean plans to launch a ballistic missile but does not know when it will take place, a source said on Wednesday.

North Korea is poised to test launch its most advanced missile, a week after it conducted its second nuclear test in three years.

Kim Jong-il is too worried about his own well-being to start a war, North Korean defectors said on Thursday.

North Korea, defiant in the face of international condemnation of its latest nuclear test, on Tuesday accused the United States of hostile intent.

North Korea on Wednesday threatened to conduct a nuclear test unless the UN Security Council apologises for imposing sanctions against it.

Regardless of whether North Korea’s rocket launch was a success or failure, analysts say the regime will spin the news to bolster support.