The LA Times points out the obvious:
"Showcasing a nuclear capability would almost certainly deepen North Korea's diplomatic and economic isolation, and could escalate the military buildup in northeast Asia, where grievances run deep and suspicions between capitals are high."Captain's Quarters list the reasons North Korea itself gives:
"...ongoing American hostility, the need for a nuclear deterrent against the US, and the supposed economic warfare being waged by the US against Pyongyang..."but the Captain also hints at something else. If North Korea demonstrates its nuclear ability, it makes itself much more attractive as an ally/partner to Iran and other groups and countries hostile to the U.S. (Venezuela, anyone?).
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