North Korea's Leader on the Move

In a rare diplomatic turn, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has embarked on a journey from Pyongyang to China via his luxurious armored train. This trip marks his participation in the highly anticipated 'Victory Day' military parade in Beijing, set to take place on Wednesday.

A Meeting of Powerhouses

This historic event will see Kim rubbing shoulders with some of the world's most significant leaders, including China's own President Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin. This will be Kim's first multilateral international meeting, highlighting the importance of his attendance.

All Aboard the Armored Train

Departing on Monday evening, Kim’s train is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a mobile fortress equipped with a restaurant car serving exquisite French cuisine, including fresh lobster and fine wines. Yet, due to the train's heavy security, the journey is expected to be a slow one, lasting up to 24 hours.

Breaking Historical Ground

Kim's presence at this parade is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time since 1959 that a North Korean leader has attended such an event in China. This is a significant upgrade from the last Victory Day parade in 2015, when North Korea sent a high-ranking official instead.

A Rare Diplomatic foray

The reclusive dictator rarely makes international trips, with his recent engagements largely limited to Russia. His last visit to Beijing back in 2019 was also aboard a train, continuing a legacy initiated by his grandfather Kim Il Sung, who traveled extensively by rail.

Expect Spectacle in Beijing

The parade will feature an impressive display of military might, with tens of thousands of personnel marching through Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II. Expect to see China's latest weaponry – including advanced tanks, aircraft, and anti-drone systems – making their grand debut in this showcase.

A Divided Attendance

While Western leaders are largely absent due to their stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a slew of leaders from Southeast Asia, including those from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam, will be there to strengthen ties with China. Among the few European representatives attending will be Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, reflecting a shift in diplomatic dynamics.