Recent Natural Disasters 2013: M 5.1 moderate artificial earthquake shakes North Korea today , the U.S. Geological Survey reported. The artificial tremor was a nuclear test as earthquakes are rare in North Korea . Want to submit a News tip or story idea? Click here Keep this page open or visit later to get update report. Check Worldwide Natural Disasters List + Detail Report M 5.1 moderate artificial earthquake shakes North Korea today , the U.S. Geological Survey reported. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake's epicenter was located 24 km ENE of Sungjibaegam and 34 km WNW of Hau-ri, North Korea. The artificial tremor was a nuclear test as earthquakes are rare in North Korea.