Kim’s Visit To China
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in Beijing with his young daughter, Kim Ju Ae. Images released by Chinese state media featured the two alighting from Kim’s iconic green armoured train at Beijing Railway Station. The visit is significant as Kim will be present at a grand “Victory Day” parade, where he will meet China’s President Xi Jinping, Russia’s Vladimir Putin, and leaders of several other nations.
It is the first time that Kim has joined so a large international assembly. The last North Korean leader to attend a Chinese military parade was in 1959. Kim himself hadn’t been back to Beijing since 2019, but now the stage is spotlighted all the more. His daughter, who South Korea’s intelligence agency thinks might take his throne someday, stood by his side in a black business suit.
The Journey And What It Means
Kim departed Pyongyang on Monday and moved slowly due to the tight security covering his armoured train. The train itself reportedly has approximately 90 carriages, ranging from dining rooms with quality wine and seafood to meeting rooms and bedrooms. Kim’s father and grandfather also travelled by train for overseas trips, and Kim Jong Il was known to shun flying.
Upon arrival, Kim was greeted by top Chinese Communist Party members, Foreign Minister Wang Yi among them. North Korea’s official news agency stated the talks took place in a “warm and friendly” atmosphere, with Kim expressing gratitude to China for its hospitality. His daughter was not referred to in the formal note, but her presence was evident in photographs.
The parade will be held in Tiananmen Square and is to feature China’s newest military hardware, aircraft, tanks, and even anti-drone technology. About 26 world leaders are likely to attend, including those from Myanmar, Iran, Cuba, and some Southeast Asian countries. Western leaders are avoiding it due to their position on Russia’s war against Ukraine.
A Rare Public Appearance Of Daughter
Kim Ju Ae was spotted at several public occasions since making her first appearance with her father late in 2022. She is believed to be 10 years old, but her age is not known for certain. North Korea’s intelligence agency has stated that she is the “most likely” to take over the leadership, although nothing has been officially confirmed by North Korea.
Her attendance at the event so high-profile once more, makes one wonder what role she could potentially play in the isolated nation’s future.
FAQs
- Why is Kim Jong Un visiting China?
He is visiting to watch a Victory Day parade in Beijing, celebrating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two.
- Â Why does Kim always take the train?
The leaders of North Korea use trains due to security concerns. The trains are bulletproof and have every amenity, including meeting rooms to high-end dining.
- Â Who is Kim Ju Ae?
She is the daughter of Kim Jong Un, estimated to be 10 years old. South Korea’s spy agency reports that she may be his future successor.
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