After the Death of Kim Jong Il: Everything and Nothing has Changed

The death of Kim Jong Il has sent shivers down the spine of many leaders in Asia and the world. In South Korea, the armed forces have been put on alert and Seoul has asked the U.S. to increase surveillance. The U.S. and South Korean governments have had several crisis meetings, including with the National Security Council. Japan has assembled a crisis management team on North Korea. All states in the region, and the U.S., are closely monitoring the developments on the Korean peninsula. Moreover, the financial markets have taken a hit due to increased uncertainties and rumors surrounding the death of Kim Jong Il.