Is North Korea's Kim Jong-un Ready for His Multilateral Diplomatic Debut in China?
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Synopsis
As North Korean leader Kim Jong-un prepares for his first multilateral diplomatic event in China, the implications of his attendance at the military parade could reshape international relations. With a potential summit featuring Putin and Xi, the stakes are higher than ever.
Key Takeaways
- Kim Jong-un is making his debut at a multilateral diplomatic event.
- The military parade in Beijing could lead to a summit with Putin and Xi.
- North Korea is aligning more closely with Russia.
- Kim's participation signals a potential shift away from US and South Korea.
- Improving relations with China may be on the agenda.
Seoul, Aug 31 (NationPress) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is poised to make his debut on the multilateral diplomatic stage during a visit to China this week. His attendance at a military parade in Beijing could pave the way for a potential three-way summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
This marks Kim's first appearance at a multilateral diplomatic gathering since he took power in late 2011. His grandfather, Kim Il-sung, was present at a military parade in Beijing back in 1959.
The announcement of Kim's attendance at China's military parade, which celebrates the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II, comes shortly after both South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump expressed their desire to reinitiate diplomacy with North Korea during a critical summit in Washington.
Kim's participation in this week's military parade alongside Putin and Xi signals a clear indication that he is not interested in pursuing diplomatic relations with either South Korea or the United States.
Kim and Putin have strengthened military ties, with reports indicating that Pyongyang has been sending troops and weapons to support Moscow's efforts in Ukraine, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
North Korea's state media confirmed that Kim made his troop deployment decision on August 28 of last year.
According to Russian media, Kim, Putin, and Xi are expected to participate in the military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on September 3, with Kim seated to the left of Xi and Putin to the right.
If Kim opts for a special train for his journey to China, it will take approximately 20 hours.
Some analysts in South Korea believe Kim is more likely to travel via his forest green train rather than the 'Chammae-1', the private aircraft he reportedly used for long domestic trips early in his tenure.
In a recent speech, Kim highlighted the emergence of a 'new Cold War' and emphasized North Korea's commitment to 'anti-US solidarity', suggesting a shift in diplomatic focus to counterbalance the United States and its allies.
Experts suggest that Kim's visit to China may be part of efforts to repair strained relations with Beijing as the conflict in Ukraine evolves, potentially shifting Moscow's attention westward.
Since last year, North Korea has increasingly aligned with Russia by sending troops to support its war efforts in Ukraine and relying on Russia for rare resources and assistance.
This alignment has caused some strain in North Korea's relationship with China, although recent interactions, such as Choe Ryong-hae's attendance at a reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Pyongyang, indicate warming ties.
Analysts speculate that Kim's attendance at the military parade is an attempt to leverage closer relations with China to bolster North Korea's negotiating stance ahead of potential talks with the US.
'Kim's visit signifies his intention to use this opportunity to enhance North Korea's solidarity with China, Russia, and collectively counter Western nations during a time when all three face sanctions,' remarked Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University's Institute for Far Eastern Studies.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the strategic significance of Kim Jong-un's forthcoming diplomatic venture in China. This move not only reflects North Korea's ambitions but also highlights the shifting dynamics in international relations, particularly concerning its ties with Russia and China amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kim Jong-un attending the military parade in China?
Kim is attending to mark the 80th anniversary of World War II and potentially engage in discussions with leaders from Russia and China.
What does Kim's attendance signify?
It indicates a potential shift in North Korea's diplomatic posture, moving away from engagement with the US and South Korea.
How has North Korea's relationship with Russia changed?
North Korea has deepened its military ties with Russia, providing support in the Ukraine conflict.
What can we expect from Kim's interactions with Xi and Putin?
These interactions may aim to reinforce alliances against Western nations and improve North Korea's bargaining position.
Will Kim's trip affect relations with China?
The trip is seen as an attempt to mend ties with China while balancing its relationship with Russia.
