January 25, 1999
Web posted at: 9:35 p.m. EST (0235 GMT)

(CNN) -- The current tensions between the United States and North Korea stem from Washington's suspicions that the North is contravening a 1994 nuclear accord while also trying to develop a long-range ballistic missile. The key dates:

North Korea agrees to dismantle its nuclear program, which Western nations feared was being used to produce plutonium for nuclear weapons.

In return, the United States, Japan and South Korea agree to build two light-water nuclear reactors, which cannot be used to make plutonium.

They also agree to supply North Korea with $5 billion worth of fuel oil until reactors are built.

Spy-satellite photographs lead U.S. officials to suspect North Korea is developing a new nuclear facility near the Yongbyon nuclear center that was idled by the 1994 accord.

North Korea test-launches a two-stage ballistic missile. The new Taepo Dong-1 has a range of 950 miles (1,500 kilometers) and is capable of reaching Japan.

Washington asks to inspect the underground facility near Yongbyon; Pyongyang counters by demanding that the United States pay $300 million for the right to inspect the site.

The United States rejects compensation demand; North Korea threatens to pull out of the 1994 accord.