Korea: Are the New North Korean Preparations Just for Show?

Shortly after reports of North Korea conducting a nuclear test, South Korea was reporting increased and unusual activity, leading to speculation of a 2nd nuclear test.

Their first test registered at 4.2 on the Richter scale. This is a relatively small disturbance as far as nuclear blasts are concerned. Did it not function properly? Or was there some other planned motivation for this "small blast"?

They probably have the ability to carry out another test. But is it necessary? They may be calculating they will be able to attain as much political mileage by "faking an end around" and posturing as if a second test is in the works.

If their intent is a strategy of delaying a solution to the crisis for as long as possible, they most likely can achieve this by keeping the United States, Japan, South Korea and China off balance and on edge over concerns of a second test, resulting in indecisiveness and a lack of unity. This would, at least in their calculations, give them more time and leverage.

Sadly, they are correct; as we all should know by now, the U.N., specifically the Security Council, will do nothing. Realistically, I don't know what can be done to change the mind of a dictator who cares not about his people, and cares only about power. This is the age old problem that is faced by man whenever some ruler wants to gain more power and starts to rattle his sabers. Responding with force seems to be the only answer despite it being a rather unpalatable choice.