N. Korea May Use Journos' Trial to Make Overtures to US

The day after its defiant second test of a nuclear device, North Korea allowed its two American prisoners, Current TV journalists Laura Ling and Euna Lee, to call home. It was such an unusual act for the repressive state, that experts think it may be a signal that North Korea will use the journalists’ trials to reopen dialogue with the United States.

North Korea has a history of pushing the world’s buttons, then offering to back down in exchange for boons like food, fuel, and diplomatic concessions. “North Korea has left the door ajar,” said one South Korean lawmaker. “The North Koreans will release the women when the timing is most favorable for North Korea's eventual purpose of engaging the United States.” (More North Korea stories.)