North Korea celebrated its 77th founding anniversary on September 10, 2025, with lively mass dances and fireworks in Pyongyang.
Leader Kim Jong Un delivered a bold speech, praising the nation’s strength and honoring soldiers fighting in Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Kim’s Message of Strength
In his address, Kim Jong Un declared, “No force can harm our country’s safety or stop our progress.”
He gave a “combat salute” to troops deployed abroad, likely those supporting Russia in Ukraine. His words highlight North Korea’s growing military ties with Moscow.
Troops in Ukraine
South Korea’s intelligence reports about 2,000 North Korean soldiers sent to Russia have died. Another 6,000 troops may be deployed, with 1,000 already active in Russia’s Kursk region.
Earlier estimates noted up to 4,700 total casualties, including 600 deaths by April 2025. Despite losses, these soldiers are adapting to modern weapons like drones. In return, North Korea receives Russian technology for satellites, drones, and missiles.
Ties with Russia and China
Earlier this month, Kim joined Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a military parade in Beijing. It marked the 80th anniversary of Japan’s WWII surrender and was their first joint public appearance.
- With Putin: Kim pledged “full support” for Russia’s military efforts, calling it a “brotherly duty.”
- With Xi: The leaders vowed deeper strategic ties, their first summit in six years.
The event showed unity against Western sanctions. Xi spoke of choosing “peace or war,” while U.S. President Donald Trump called it a “conspiracy” against America.
Celebrations in Pyongyang
Kim hosted a photo session with workers and contributors in Pyongyang. Evening galas and fireworks filled Kim Il Sung Square, boosting national pride. These events reflect North Korea’s focus on unity amid global challenges.
Why This Matters
Kim’s speech and alliances with Russia and China signal North Korea’s growing military and nuclear ambitions. Recent rocket engine tests after the Beijing summit raise concerns in the Asia-Pacific region.
Experts see these moves as a trade-off: North Korea gains technology but loses many soldiers. This could heighten tensions with the West, testing global stability.
