First of all the question was why did the NK issue escalate. And the answer was: Bush left the table, he refused to talk to them, he stopped the oil and power. So NK responded by escalating the situation. End of story. Bush wanted confrontation and he got it. Now NK is calling his bluff. That's the way WWs get started.
BTW, this administration is creating many of their distractions.
"When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross." - Sinclair Lewis
"Those Who Would Sacrifice Liberty for Security Deserve Neither." -Benjamin Franklin