Pyongyang: North Korea appears to have initiated a military parade in Pyongyang to celebrate the 80th founding anniversary of its ruling party, an informed source reported. This nighttime military parade is the first of its kind in two years, following a paramilitary parade in September 2023, which marked the 75th anniversary of the regime's founding day.

According to Yonhap News Agency, specific details of the event, including major attendees and showcased weapons, are yet to be disclosed. It is also uncertain whether North Korean leader Kim Jong-un will deliver a speech or if his daughter, Ju-ae, will be present on the main podium. The guest list is anticipated to feature high-ranking leaders from China and Russia, such as Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev. Additionally, Vietnam's top leader To Lam is expected to attend.

The event occurs approximately a month after Kim Jong-un was seen alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping during a significant military parade in Beijing, signaling a display of strengthening ties among the nations. Government sources have indicated that North Korea is preparing for a large-scale military parade involving tens of thousands of participants to mark the party's anniversary on October 10. Typically, North Korea conducts military parades on major anniversaries ending in zero or five.

Analysts suggest that Pyongyang might unveil the next-generation Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile, which is currently under development, during the military parade or potentially test-launch it around the anniversary.