Why did North Korea release U.S. hostages now?

(CNN) - Right now, Kenneth Bae and Matthew Todd Miller are getting adjusted to life back in the U.S., after – in Bae's case – years in North Korea, including at a labor camp. Both men returned to their families over the weekend.

Today in Beijing, President Obama said the U.S. jumped on the opportunity to bring these men home.

The president also said the release did not involve high-level talks, but we do know the U.S. sent National Intelligence Director James Clapper to Pyongyang. And Clapper brought along a letter from President Obama – addressed to Kim Jong Un.

CNN's Chief National Security Correspondent Jim Sciutto joined "The Lead" to discuss.