Parade of power: Kim Jong Un’s message to the world grows louder 

October 7, 2025

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged to intensify his country’s military buildup and send additional weapons in response to what he called the growing presence of United States forces in South Korea. His remarks come as North Korea prepares for a major military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, scheduled for October 10.

In a report published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Sunday, Kim said that Pyongyang’s “strategic interest in the region has increased in direct proportion to the buildup of US forces in [South] Korea.” He added that North Korea had “allocated special assets to key targets of interest,” signaling that his government is closely tracking US and allied military positions in the region.

Kim’s statement followed reports from South Korea that North Korea has amassed a large quantity of highly enriched uranium suitable for nuclear weapons, indicating a substantial increase in its nuclear material stockpile. Referring to these developments, Kim said, “I believe our enemies should be concerned about the direction their security environment is evolving.”

The comments were made during a military exhibition held ahead of the parade. Kim emphasized that Pyongyang would take further “military steps” to counter what it perceives as an increasing threat from the US and its allies, though he did not elaborate on the specific measures planned.

Over the past few months, Kim has adopted a more aggressive tone in public statements, urging his senior officials to strengthen the nation’s “nuclear shield and sword.” He has repeatedly asserted that only a “nuclear counteraction” can ensure North Korea’s long-term security. Analysts interpret this as part of Pyongyang’s broader effort to deter perceived external threats while showcasing its growing military power.

The upcoming anniversary parade is expected to be one of the largest in recent years, underscoring both political symbolism and military strength. South Korean intelligence agencies have reported visible signs of preparation in Pyongyang, including the movement of military equipment and the organization of large crowds expected to participate in the nighttime parade. Tens of thousands of people are believed to be rehearsing for the October 10 event, which will feature the country’s newest weapons systems.

According to analysts cited by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency, North Korea may use the occasion to unveil the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Some experts believe Pyongyang could even carry out a test launch to coincide with the anniversary. Previous national celebrations have often been used by North Korea to showcase new military technologies or to send political messages to foreign governments.

Despite occasional diplomatic outreach from Seoul and Washington, Kim Jong Un has maintained a hardline position toward both South Korea and the United States. His government continues to condemn joint US-South Korea military exercises as provocative and destabilizing. The latest statements also reflect growing frustration in Pyongyang over what it sees as the expansion of US-led deterrence measures in the region.

The tensions come amid a changing political landscape in Seoul. South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, who took office in June, has pledged to pursue a more conciliatory policy toward Pyongyang compared to his predecessor, Yoon Suk-yeol. However, North Korea’s continued missile tests and weapons displays have limited prospects for renewed dialogue.

On the international front, North Korea has been deepening its partnerships with Russia and China, two of its key allies. Pyongyang has reportedly supplied troops and artillery to assist Russian forces in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kim also recently visited Beijing to attend a military parade alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

The growing military and diplomatic alignment among Pyongyang, Moscow, and Beijing is viewed by Western analysts as part of an emerging bloc challenging US influence in East Asia. As North Korea moves forward with its military parade and expands its weapons programs, observers warn that tensions on the Korean Peninsula are likely to intensify in the coming weeks, with little indication of de-escalation on any side.