Speculations are rising that the new large structure being installed in Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, may be related to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit.
According to Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia (RFA) on June 12, a large object that was not previously identified in satellite images of Kim Il Sung Square was taken by the U.S. private satellite service Planet Labs on June 9. More structures were lined up near the Cabinet Complex building north of the square and south of the Foreign Trade Ministry building.
These objects appeared even more clearly in satellite images taken on June 11. However, it’s hard to determine what these objects are and their purpose solely based on the satellite images.
There are assumptions that they might be preparing for Putin’s visit, given North Korea’s past practice of conducting separate training and installing structures in Kim Il Sung Square when high-ranking officials from China or Russia visit or when a parade is held.
Typically, people and vehicles gather at the parade training ground north of Pyongyang Mirim Airport for training if a parade is to be held. However, VOA analyzed that there is no movement related to a parade. Researcher and Analyst Jacob Bogle told RFA, “There is a possibility that they’re preparing a welcome event for Putin’s visit,” adding, “It could also be part of an effort to improve Kim Il Sung Square.”
Russian news outlet Vedomosti cited diplomatic sources and reported that Putin is planning to visit North Korea and Vietnam within a few weeks, possibly as early as June.
If Putin visits North Korea, it will be the first time in 24 years since Kim Jong Il was in power in July 2000.