Kim Jong Un’s Military Parade Visit in Beijing: A Mysterious Journey at the Heart of International Politics
In a recent move on the global stage, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un undertook a surprising visit to China, sparking widespread interest among analysts and the international political community.
Traveling by armored train, he headed to Beijing ahead of a large-scale military parade commemorating the anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II.
This extraordinary journey, widely covered by the media, signals a new era in the diplomatic relations between the two countries, which have a long history of tension.According to North Korea’s official newspaper Rodong Sinmun, the leader departed from Pyeongyang on Monday, crossing into China early Tuesday morning.
His train moved at a modest speed of approximately 60 km/h, typical for such high-security travels.
The train itself has gained reputation as a ‘moving fortress’ due to its security features and amenities designed to ensure the leader’s safety and comfort during strategic movements.Inside, the train is equipped with negotiation rooms, sleeping cabins, and offices with wooden paneling and leather chairs, tailored for long journeys at the highest diplomatic level.
This high level of security and comfort facilitates the confidentiality of Kim Jong Un’s plans and reinforces his leadership stature.It is expected that on Wednesday, Kim Jong Un will join Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin to observe the grand military parade in Beijing—a historic first where these three key figures will gather on one platform.
This event raises questions about potential strategic alliances and mutual messaging.Recent North Korean foreign policy has focused heavily on Moscow, which has supplied troops and ammunition to support Russia’s war in Ukraine in exchange for military and economic aid.
Relations with China, however, experienced some strain recently but still hold the potential for renewal.
Experts believe this visit may be an attempt by Kim to rebuild ties with China, North Korea’s main trading partner and significant source of support, crucial for the country’s economic stability and regime strength.