North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will travel to Beijing next week to attend a massive military parade marking 80 years since the end of World War II, officials in both countries confirmed on Thursday.
The September 3 commemoration in Tiananmen Square will feature troops marching in tight formation, armored vehicles, and aerial flyovers showcasing China’s latest military technology. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to review the parade, which will also host 25 other leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Beijing says the event is intended to honor the millions of Chinese who died during Japan’s invasion in the 1930s and 40s while underscoring China’s resilience.
“The Chinese people will join hands with the people of all countries to firmly defend the victories of World War II,” said Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei.
READ ALSO:Ukraine Nabs North Korean Soldiers in Kursk Amid Conflict
Pyongyang’s state media confirmed Kim’s attendance, noting it was at the invitation of Xi. Analysts see the visit as a demonstration of North Korea’s enduring alignment with Beijing.
“The visit shows the United States cannot bully them into submission,” said Chong Ja Ian, a political science professor at the National University of Singapore.
While recent cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised speculation about shifting alliances, experts stress Kim’s trip reaffirms North Korea’s reliance on its “traditional friendship” with China. Assistant Minister Hong underscored Beijing’s intent to deepen exchanges and “work closely in promoting regional p
eace and stability.”
Kim’s last trip to China was in 2019, while he skipped the 2015 commemorative parade. His attendance this year, analysts say, highlights both China’s regional influence and Pyongyang’s determination to remain firmly anchored in Beijing’s orbit.