North Korean leader Kim Jong-un led a solemn Victory Day tribute in Pyongyang to mark the anniversary of the 1953 armistice. On Saturday, Kim visited the Friendship Tower, where he laid a wreath to honor the Chinese soldiers who fought during the Korean War. This gesture reinforced North Korea’s historical gratitude for China’s wartime support.
According to state media, Kim praised the “militant feats and merits of the fallen fighters of the Chinese People’s Volunteers.” He emphasized that North Korea would never forget their sacrifice. However, this year’s ceremony included noticeably fewer references to current North Korea-China ties.
For decades, the Friendship Tower has served as a symbol of North Korea-China friendship. Erected in 1959, it stands in the heart of Pyongyang to commemorate the Chinese role in the Korean War. Kim has made similar visits in previous years to mark Victory Day, a holiday North Korea observes on July 27.
Since 1996, North Korea has celebrated the armistice date as Victory Day. The government refers to the war as the Liberation War and claims a victory over US-led forces. This year’s events, however, lacked the usual criticism directed at South Korea or the United States.
During the day, Kim also toured the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum. At the museum, he placed flowers before a statue of North Korea’s founder Kim Il-sung. He hailed the Korean War as a success driven by Juche ideology, homegrown strategy, and military tactics.
In his remarks, Kim vowed that North Korea would build a strong military and become a proud victor in ongoing anti-imperialist struggles. Despite this rhetoric, he avoided hostile comments toward the US or South Korea.
Later, Kim met with soldiers from the 4th Corps of the Korean People’s Army. He described the unit as a model for the Party’s training-first policy and posed for photographs with the servicemen.
The Victory Day tribute also featured public celebrations, including a student dance party at Kim Il Sung Square. These events highlighted the mix of commemoration and national pride that defines Victory Day in North Korea.
Observers noted the limited reference to China in Kim’s speech. Analysts suggest this may signal North Korea’s desire to show greater independence, especially as it deepens ties with Russia. Despite historical loyalty, the country appears to be recalibrating its diplomatic stance in a complex geopolitical landscape.
