PYONGYANG’S revelation that Kim Jong Un has delayed approval of missiles being launched towards Guam to observe “the foolish and stupid conduct of the Yankees” represents a welcome outbreak of common sense.

This new approach isn’t couched in diplomatic terms, replete as it is with a blood-curdling warning that North Korea can “wring the windpipes of the Yankees,” but the underlying message is that Washington should “think reasonably and judge properly.”

It should serve to encourage the Trump administration to move beyond Hollywood-style bellicose rhetoric and think about millions of Korean lives at risk.