Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has projected that the country's armed forces will play a pivotal role in the upcoming five years, as he marked the 78th founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army (KPA) with a visit to the Ministry of National Defense, state media reported on Monday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim's visit coincides with the upcoming ninth party congress scheduled for late February, during which he is anticipated to unveil significant policies on military, diplomatic, economic, and other strategic areas for the next five years. During his speech on Sunday, Kim hinted at a new five-year plan focused on enhancing defense capabilities, signaling a continuation of the military development trajectory set during the eighth party congress in 2021.
During the eighth congress, North Korea had laid out plans to develop advanced military technologies, including military spy satellites, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, and a nuclear-powered submarine. This year, however, Kim refrained from directly criticizing South Korea and the United States, suggesting a cautious approach to international relations amid a fluid security environment.
Last year, Kim had reiterated the country's commitment to bolstering its nuclear forces and accused the U.S. of contributing to global conflicts. Despite recent expressions from South Korea and the U.S. to renew dialogue with North Korea, Pyongyang has not reciprocated, focusing instead on strengthening military ties with Russia.
Kim highlighted the North Korean military's "unheard-of dramatic events" and "distinguished feats" from the previous year, indicating that 2023 would be a period of significant transformation for the country's armed forces. He expressed admiration for the overseas special operations units supporting Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, extending his congratulations to the commanding officers and combatants.
During his visit to the defense ministry, Kim was joined by high-ranking defense officials, including Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, and Defense Minister No Kwang-chol. In celebration of the army's founding anniversary, No and other military officials paid homage at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where the remains of late state founder Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, father of the current leader, are preserved.