I think Kim fears losing power more than he fears death. A rational man doesn't execute people by aintiarcraft artillery. But a person who will do anything to maintain power, he might.

His people are starving, and he spends his country's limited resources on his military. I think, if he had a choice between losing his power or starting a war, he'll choose war - even one he can't win.

And who knows, maybe he thinks he really can win. I don't think too many of his advisors are brave enough to tell him otherwise.

Onward and upward,
airforce