Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, embarked on a journey from Pyongyang on Monday to attend a military parade in China, which honors the conclusion of World War II. He is expected to arrive in Beijing on Tuesday, utilizing a special train for the trip. This marks Kim’s first venture abroad since his visit to Russia for discussions with President Putin in 2023. During his time in Beijing, Kim is anticipated to witness the parade alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to North Korean state media, Kim Jong Un was invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The North Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim will be in China to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Xinhua, a Chinese state media source, indicated that 26 international leaders would be present at China’s V-Day commemorations in Beijing. The parade will feature tens of thousands of military personnel marching through Tiananmen Square, under the observation of Xi Jinping. China’s Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei conveyed China’s warm welcome to the North Korean leader, underscoring the strong friendly ties between China and North Korea.
