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We noted in our analysis of the test yesterday that the nuclear and missile programs have clear domestic motives. Nothing could make this more clear than the copy of the order to undertake the fourth test, signed on December 15 and broadcast on North Korean television after the test had transpired. It takes the form of approval of a document by the KWP Munitions Industry Department, reporting on the "preparations for the H-bomb experiment." Kim's message reads "Let the whole world look up to the Juche socialist Chosun, a nuclear power, the great Worker's Party of Korea by opening up the year of 2016, a victorious and glorious year in which the 7th party congress will be held, with the thrilling sound of the first H-bomb blast!” Literally fireworks. In a second message signed Jan 3, Kim Jong Un approves another document by the Munitions Industry Department reporting that the "H-bomb experiment preparation is complete." This time, Kim writes "the Party Center approves the H-bomb test. The test shall take place on Jan 6, 2016.” As noted yesterday, the order to undertake the test was reported as coming in the name of the KWP Central Committee, and as the earlier document notes the effort is linked explicitly to the convening of the first Party Congress since 1980.
