PYONGYANG — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un participated in events commemorating the 71st anniversary of the armistice that halted the 1950-53 Korean War, as reported by state media on Sunday. The celebrations included meetings with war veterans and various nationwide events.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim attended a gathering at the Pyongyang Indoor Stadium with veterans who have held significant roles in the government, military, and the ruling Workers' Party. Although Kim did not speak at the event, Ri Il-hwan, a secretary of the Party’s Central Committee, praised the older generation's contributions during the war, urging the youth to honor their legacy.
The anniversary was marked by a series of cultural and sporting events throughout the country, showcasing the government's focus on both remembrance and national pride. Highlights of the day included a video presentation celebrating the wartime generation’s heroism, an evening parade, fireworks, and a nighttime performance.
In a display of historical alliances, last year's 70th anniversary featured a military parade attended by foreign dignitaries from Russia and China, underscoring Pyongyang's continued ties with its Cold War-era allies against the backdrop of intensifying security cooperation among Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo.
Additionally, senior North Korean officials visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, paying homage to the embalmed bodies of Kim's predecessors, Kim Jong-il and Kim Il-sung. The Rodong Sinmun newspaper extended its coverage to eight pages, highlighting the scale and significance of the commemorative events.