14 February 2013

News Story: China Internet users blast official stance on N. Korea


Chinese social media users berated authorities Wednesday for their relatively mild response to North Korea's nuclear test, with one likening Pyongyang to a "crazy dog" that had humiliated Beijing.

The hostility towards China's defiant neighbour contrasted with the official response from Beijing -- expressing "firm opposition" but reiterating calls for calm and restraint and not mentioning any reprisals or sanctions.

Pyongyang conducted the test on Tuesday, two days after Lunar New Year, which is China's biggest annual festival, and as the public holiday continued.

"If you pursue an unjust long-term diplomatic policy, then people will dare to explode a stinkbomb at your door while you are on holiday," said Yu Jianrong, a director at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

"You are inviting your own humiliation," he added on Sina Weibo, China's popular Twitter-like service, where he has 1.5 million followers.

Beijing is Pyongyang's most important backer, providing it with trade and aid that have enabled the state to survive since the end of the 1950-53 Korean War.

Read the full story at SpaceDaily