Korean War Part II?

The recent tragic attack by North Korea on a South Korean island killing 2 civilians and 2 South Korean marines could lead to much bigger events. North Korea is threatening to go to war if the U.S. and South Korea do not stop their upcoming naval exercises. The peninsula going to war again could lead to a global disaster. As of right now, China which is an ally of North Korea, is asking that the U.S. and South Korea, as well as North Korea, show some form of restraint. However, the U.S. says that if the threats of more attacks become reality there may be no option than a joint military strike on North Korea. Unlike the war of the past, China would need to take a much more visibly active role whether it’s joining the side of their ally against the U.S. and South Korea or by taking a stance against the provocation of North Korea. Either way, if these actions towards war proceed I believe that the face of world politics will forever change. And only one can speculate how this conflict will change the economic structure of the world. As far as I see it China has two options: 1. They can side with North Korea obligating they’re alliance but then face the possibility of being put into economic turmoil by going against the U.S. 2. They can stay out of the situation which in my opinion is the same as siding with the U.S. this will make China a much more susceptible to westernization.