Kim Jong Un’s Weapons Showcase: A Show of Strength to Foreign Allies

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North Korea displays the latest missiles and drones to Russian and Chinese delegates.

During a recent visit to Pyongyang, Kim Jong Un, the Supreme Leader of North Korea, showcased the country’s latest weapons to Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Defence Minister. The North Korean regime extended an invitation to the Russian delegation, led by Mr. Shoigu, along with Chinese officials, to participate in the 70th-anniversary celebrations of the Korean War armistice. These celebrations traditionally involve massive military parades.

The prominent display during the event featured the Hwasong intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which had been successfully tested in April. This particular ICBM is noteworthy as it is believed to be North Korea’s first missile using solid propellants, making it faster to launch compared to its liquid-fuel counterparts. Additionally, two new drone designs were showcased, with one bearing a resemblance to a primary offensive strike drone utilized by the US Air Force, according to NK News, an expert site focusing on North Korea.

Amid the visit, there have been accusations that North Korea has been supplying arms to Russia for its involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. Both Pyongyang and Moscow have denied these claims. Nonetheless, during Mr. Shoigu’s visit, he and Kim Jong Un discussed “matters of mutual concern” related to national defense and the international security environment.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile, vowing to continue its nuclear-weapon advances until the U.S. and South Korea “admit their shameful defeat.” https://t.co/tCqVMbufEW

— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) July 13, 2023

Russia and China have long been allies of North Korea, and their presence during the celebrations marked the first time Mr. Kim welcomed foreign guests since the Covid pandemic began.

During the event, Mr. Shoigu had a “friendly talk” with Kim Jong Un and presented him with an autographed letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin. North Korea’s KCNA news agency reported that Mr. Kim praised his country’s military as “the most powerful” in the world.

The visit also included a delegation from China, led by politburo member Li Hongzhong, who delivered a personal letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Kim Jong Un.

Some analysts speculate that the inclusion of Chinese and Russian envoys in this year’s Victory Day parade might indicate a possible loosening of Covid restrictions in North Korea.