You're welcome

This news makes me feel faint.

SEOUL, South Korea - North Korea is grateful to the United States for helping the crew of a North Korean cargo ship fight off pirates in waters off Somalia, the North's official news agency said Thursday.

The North's Korean Central News Agency said the incident was a "symbol of cooperation" between the two countries "in the struggle against terrorism."

Last week, the U.S. Navy boarded the North Korean ship Dai Hong Dan to provide medical assistance at the crew's invitation after they had already overpowered and detained all pirates.

"The pirates' recent armed attack on our trading ship was a grave terrorist act perpetrated against a peaceful ship," KCNA said. "We feel grateful to the United States for its assistance given to our crewmen."

KCNA said that seven pirates, "disguised as guards," boarded the North Korean vessel on Oct. 29, and demanded that the sailors pay them $15,000 and move the ship to the waters they want.

The USS James E. Williams and a helicopter rushed to the scene and "helped the (North Korean) sailors in fighting, threatening the pirates over walkie-talkie," KCNA said.

Earlier reports said that the standoff left at least one pirate dead and three North Korean sailors wounded. KCNA said six North Korean sailors were hurt.

All joking aside, I'm glad the United States could be of help. This incident however is unlikely to change relations between the two nations.

Thanks to GI at ROK Drop for the above photos. Who says "Something I haven’t seen anybody ask yet is what was the North Koreans transporting?" Ping pong balls?(Cue the sarcastic laughter)

Also commenting- Robert Koehler at Marmot's Hole
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