The North Korean leader has arrived in Beijing via his distinctive armored train to participate in China’s military parade marking the anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender.
The journey from Pyongyang to Beijing took approximately 20 hours aboard the specialized green train, which features reinforced security measures and travels at modest speeds. This mode of transportation has served multiple generations of North Korean leadership, providing secure accommodations for official delegations during international visits.
While the current leader has demonstrated willingness to travel by air for previous diplomatic engagements, the armored train remains his preferred method for extended journeys. The customized carriages include sleeping quarters, conference facilities, and office spaces equipped with communication systems and security features.
Official photographs released by North Korean media showed the leader accompanied by senior officials during the journey, including images of the train’s interior with its distinctive decorative elements and functional workspace arrangements.
The military parade in Beijing brings together numerous international leaders, including the Russian president, creating a significant gathering of nations that have maintained complex relationships with Western powers. This marks the North Korean leader’s inaugural participation in a major multilateral event since assuming leadership.
Recent geopolitical developments have seen North Korea strengthen cooperation with Russia through military support arrangements, while maintaining crucial economic ties with China as its primary trading partner. The Beijing visit presents an opportunity for diplomatic engagement amid evolving international relationships.
The parade ceremony represents one of the year’s most significant diplomatic gatherings, bringing together leaders from various geopolitical backgrounds for commemorative events and potential bilateral discussions.
