Kim Jong-un to Attend WWII Commemoration in Beijing: A Shift in North Korean Diplomacy
Published: August 28, 2025
North Korean leader Kim jong-un will make a significant international appearance next week. He is scheduled to attend a military parade in Beijing, China, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This trip represents a potentially pivotal moment in North Korea‘s diplomatic strategy.
A Rare Diplomatic Outing
This visit woudl be Kim Jong-un’s first to China since 2019. It signals a renewed effort by North Korea to broaden its international relationships, especially with nations that share a complex relationship with the United States. You’ll find this move comes as diplomatic efforts with the US and South Korea to de-escalate North Korea’s nuclear program remain stalled since the 2019 Trump-Kim summit collapse.
Who Else Will Be there?
China’s Xinhua News Agency reports that 26 foreign leaders are expected to attend the event on September 3rd. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin will also be present. However, leaders from the United States and most Western European countries are not anticipated to attend, largely due to ongoing disagreements regarding the war in Ukraine.
China’s Role in North Korea’s Strategy
China has historically been North Korea’s most critically important economic partner and aid provider.However, recent years have seen questions arise regarding the strength of their relationship. Currently,approximately 97% of North Korea’s external trade is conducted with China,with a mere 1.2% with Russia.
Expanding Alliances and Shifting Focus
Recently, North Korea has focused on strengthening ties with Russia. This includes providing military support,such as troops and ammunition,for Russia’s war in Ukraine. Concurrently, Pyongyang appears to be taking steps to revitalize its relationship with China.
A More Vocal North Korea
Beyond the Korean Peninsula, North Korea is becoming increasingly active in international discourse. You’ll notice they’ve begun issuing statements on global conflicts, including those in the Middle East and concerning the Taiwan Strait. This broader engagement suggests a desire to assert itself on the world stage.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
Kim Jong-un’s trip to China underscores a clear strategy: diversifying diplomatic and economic partnerships. As negotiations with the US remain frozen, North Korea is actively seeking support and alliances elsewhere. This shift could have significant implications for regional stability and future diplomatic efforts.
Source: AP
