Yonhap: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Pyongyang this afternoon

Yonhap: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Pyongyang this afternoon

Seoul, July 2, 2025 — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has left Pyongyang today, embarking on a journey to China to attend a military parade in Beijing. The move marks Kim's first appearance on a multilateral diplomatic stage and could signal a shift in North Korea's foreign policy [1].

Kim's departure comes amidst growing speculation about a potential three-way meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The military parade, scheduled for September 3, will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in China. Kim is expected to arrive in Beijing by Tuesday, having traveled via his special armored train, which is a more secure and reliable mode of transport compared to his private plane, Chammae-1 [1].

The visit to China is significant as it follows a period of strained relations between Pyongyang and Beijing, which had been exacerbated by North Korea's alignment with Russia during the Ukraine conflict. The military parade and potential trilateral summit could indicate an attempt by North Korea to restore its traditionally strong ties with China. Experts suggest that Kim's trip to China might also be an effort to leverage North Korea's closer relations with China to strengthen its bargaining position ahead of potential negotiations with the United States [1].

Kim's visit to a newly completed missile production line in Pyongyang just days before his departure underscores North Korea's military capabilities and its readiness to showcase its advancements. The move is seen as a deliberate attempt to signal North Korea's strength and readiness to engage in diplomatic discussions [3].

The military parade in Beijing will be attended by state leaders from 26 foreign countries, including Kim, Xi, and Putin. The event is expected to be a significant diplomatic milestone for North Korea, marking its first appearance at such a high-profile multilateral event since Kim assumed power in late 2011 [1].

The visit also coincides with growing U.S. efforts to "modernize" its alliances, including with South Korea, in response to China's growing global influence. The U.S. has been pushing for a joint front to counter China's influence, and Kim's attendance at the military parade could be seen as a strategic move to align North Korea with China and Russia [1].

References:
[1] https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20250901000951315
[2] https://www.mk.co.kr/en/politics/11404887
[3] https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10566025