Washington, Tokyo, Seoul and others consider both the rocket launch and the nuclear test provocative acts that threaten regional security.

NPR: Dennis Rodman Worms His Way Into North Korea

Was the test at all provocative?

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

Mr Obama said the test was a "highly provocative act", and called for "swift" and "credible" international action in response.

BBC: North Korea carries out biggest nuclear test

Analysts caution that it is possible North Korea is simply using the existence of the missile to feed concerns about the isolated state's provocative behavior and won't proceed with a test firing.

WSJ: Seoul Raises Alert Ahead of Expected Test

With new leaders in South Korea, Japan and China, North Korea's nuclear test also fits another longtime pattern of a undertaking a provocative act early in the tenure of other political leaders, then following it with steps to smooth relations in hopes of persuading the others to provide financial aid and other assistance.

WSJ: North Korea Tests Nuclear Device

As Mary Lou's skilled subordinates throughout that period, Frank Perley and Ben Tyree, know well, I would frequently test her patience with a late submission and occasionally with a particularly provocative column.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: In Honor of Mary Lou Forbes