Kim Jong Un Marks 75 Years of North Korean Communism With Giant New Missile Leader tears up during emotional speech at event where Pyongyang introduces a new intercontinental missile that is likely the largest of its kind on Earth
North Korea celebrated 75 years of communism with a military parade at which it unveiled an intercontinental missile that experts say is likely larger than anything else like it on Earth.
The Saturday event, the country’s first military parade in two years, signaled a shift back to the more strident approach Pyongyang long took before softening its stance amid nuclear talks with the Trump administration that are now stalled.
The well-orchestrated ceremony, which included rumbling tanks, goose-stepping soldiers and fireworks, happened overnight and aired on a tape-delayed broadcast on state television. It seemed to flaunt the regime’s confidence in its coronavirus pandemic response: thousands of unmasked spectators crowded close together.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, wearing glasses and a gray suit, entered as fireworks shot off into the pitch-black sky. He strolled to a balcony that overlooked the massive flag-waving crowd packed with soldiers and elites, including his sister, Kim Yo Jong. Tearing up at times during an emotional 25-minute speech, Mr. Kim thanked his military for contending with recent floods and the pandemic, repeating the country’s claim it has zero Covid-19 cases.
State TV showed spectators crying and repeatedly shouting “Man-sei!” or “Long live!” Mr. Kim didn’t mention President Trump or the U.S. nor did he issue any direct threats. He expressed hopes that after the pandemic passed, North and South Koreans could once again join hands.
“Our war deterrence will never be used as a means for pre-emptive strike. But if,” said Mr. Kim, pausing for a moment, “and if any forces infringes upon the security of our state, I will enlist all our most powerful offensive strength.”
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