North Korea is preparing for a potential military parade as it approaches the highly anticipated Ninth Party Congress. Recent satellite imagery reveals hundreds of soldiers conducting marching drills at the Mirim Parade Training Ground in eastern Pyongyang, according to a report from the Stimson Center-based organization, 38 North. This activity is likely intended for a parade to commemorate the congress, which is a key event for the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea.
The satellite images show soldiers forming shapes that include the hammer, sickle, and brush, symbols integral to the party’s emblem. The Ninth Party Congress occurs every five years, during which North Korea outlines its domestic and international policy strategies. Kim Jong Un is expected to present a new framework detailing the nation’s political, economic, and military objectives leading up to 2031.
While the official date for the congress remains unconfirmed, South Korean officials and the National Intelligence Service predict it will take place in early to mid-February. On February 1, 2024, the Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea reported observing signs of parade preparations at both Mirim Airfield and Kim Il Sung Square, sites historically used for such events. “It’s not yet clear whether a military parade will take place,” said Col. Lee Sung-jun, a spokesman for the JCS, during a press briefing. “As I understand, preparations are currently being made as a civilian event.”
As the regime gears up for this significant gathering, Kim Jong Un has made several public appearances, signaling a push to showcase progress. Last week, he attended a groundbreaking ceremony for a regional development project in Unnyul County, part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing local industries and infrastructure. Additionally, Kim has increased his on-site inspections, recently dismissing a vice premier due to construction delays at a key machinery plant.
A report from the state-funded Korea Institute for National Unification indicates that this dismissal may reflect growing pressure within the regime to demonstrate concrete economic improvements, particularly as the country grapples with international sanctions and ongoing shortages that hinder growth. Military developments have also been notable, with Kim overseeing a test-firing of an upgraded large-caliber multiple rocket launcher system in late January. He has indicated that plans to enhance the country’s nuclear deterrent will be revealed at the upcoming party congress.
The timing of the congress could be influenced by whether Pyongyang intends to conduct additional public events prior to the gathering. According to the 38 North report, “If there are more economic projects to showcase or weapons to test before the Party Congress commences, the event could take longer to open.” As North Korea continues its preparations, the international community remains watchful, awaiting further developments from this secretive state.
