North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his young daughter, Kim Ju Ae, made a historic appearance at a massive military parade in Pyongyang. The event showcased the latest hardware in the country’s growing nuclear arsenal, including the possible unveiling of a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile.
State media have signaled a lofty role for Kim Ju Ae, referring to her as “respected” and “beloved.” In a photo released from the parade, she is seen sitting in the seat of honor, surrounded by her parents and high-ranking officials.
The parade marked the 75th anniversary of the founding of the North Korean army and was a display of the country’s military might. The event was attended by thousands of troops and spectators, who cheered as Kim Jong Un, his wife, and daughter arrived in a limousine.
Kim held hands with his daughter as they walked down a red carpet and entered a building where they waited for the main event to begin. The parade was filled with thousands of soldiers marching in step and chanting slogans, as well as a ceremonial cavalry unit riding white horses, a symbol of the Kim family’s dynastic rule.
Kim’s nuclear missiles were the highlight of the parade, with launcher trucks carrying around 10 Hwasong-17 ICBMs. Analysts say the unprecedented number of these weapons on display suggests progress in North Korea’s efforts to produce them in larger numbers.
The parade came after Kim Jong Un ordered an expansion of combat exercises, further escalating the country’s provocative weapons tests in the face of growing tensions with its neighbors and the United States. The South Korean and U.S. militaries are closely monitoring the situation, analyzing the photos and reports from the parade to evaluate the weaponry on display.
While the world watches with interest, it remains to be seen if Kim Ju Ae will follow in her father’s footsteps as the next leader of North Korea.