North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made an appearance at the Victory Day parade in Beijing on Wednesday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan and the Allies in World War II. During the event, Kim was observed engaging exclusively with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Footage from China’s state broadcaster CCTV showed Kim seated to Xi’s left throughout various segments of the parade, conversing with the Chinese leader. When Xi pointed out marching troops, Kim appeared somewhat tense during their exchange. His furrowed brow might have been due to the intense sunlight beating down on the Tiananmen Tower.
Even as other world leaders and dignitaries stood to observe the parade, Kim maintained a rigid posture. He was not seen interacting with anyone beside or behind him.
Earlier that day, Kim arrived for the parade, which began at 9:00 a.m. He exited a black armored limousine at 8:18 a.m. in front of Beijing’s The Palace Museum.
Departing from his usual Mao suit, Kim wore a black suit with a bright gold tie. His daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who had been seen with him the previous day, was not present. No other North Korean officials accompanied him.
CCTV provided extensive live coverage of Kim’s movements, highlighting his presence.
Prior to the parade, President Xi greeted very important person (VIP) guests in the square before the Palace Museum. Kim was the third-to-last to exit his vehicle and the second-to-last to shake hands with Xi. The Chinese leader emphasized their close relationship with a warm, two-handed handshake.
Xi positioned Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the center of the group. The three leaders walked abreast, engaging in conversation as they ascended to the Tiananmen Tower.
When Xi greeted and shook hands with Chinese veterans, both Kim and Putin followed suit, smiling and exchanging handshakes with the nearby veterans.
This marks Kim’s fifth official visit to China since assuming power in 2011, and his first in 6 years and 8 months, with his last visit occurring in January 2019.
While Kim’s previous visits to China were bilateral in nature, his participation in this multilateral event has drawn significant attention from the international community.