The North Korean authorities have declared a quasi-state of war this morning, according to sources inside the country. …

The period roughly matches that of South Korea’s ‘Hoguk’ military exercises, which started yesterday and will continue until November 2nd. In addition, the declaration came shortly before South Korea was due to launch a rocket from its launch base in South Jeolla Province.

However, it is unclear at this stage whether North Korea’s decision to issue the declaration is related to either event.