North Korea is gearing up for a massive military parade on October 10 to mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party. Intelligence reports indicate that preparations are underway at key locations near Pyongyang, including Mirim Airfield, the May Day Stadium on Rungra Island, and Kim Il Sung Square.
On Thursday, satellite imagery analysis firm SI Analytics released its NK Insight report, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI)-powered satellite imagery. The report reveals that North Korea has been orchestrating this large-scale parade since May, with supporting satellite photos made public.
At Mirim Airfield, the primary rehearsal site for such parades, approximately 700 trucks have been identified, suggesting a potential troop mobilization of at least 14,000 personnel. Since May, an additional 250 trucks and buses have been spotted around the April 25 House of Culture.
Recent satellite imagery has captured tire tracks near suspected new weapons storage facilities. The report details observations of command vehicles and equipment columns conducting march drills in the vicinity of these storage areas, hinting at the possible unveiling of new weaponry during the parade.
Kim Il Sung Square, the centerpiece of the parade, has been a hive of activity since August. Mass dance rehearsals and large-scale mobilization events have been confirmed. Satellite imagery reveals crowds forming slogans promoting Kim Jong Un’s flagship Local Development 20X10 Policy.
The May Day Stadium on Rungra Island, with its 100,000-person capacity, has shown signs of extensive preparations since July. Large-scale vehicle deployments and stage installations have been observed, along with crowds forming the phrase Strong Nation. As of September 7, satellite imagery confirmed the presence of 12 buses, 252 trucks, stage setups, and substantial personnel formations.
The report draws parallels to Kim’s recent attendance at China’s 80th Anniversary Victory Day parade, where Beijing showcased new weaponry including the Dongfeng-61 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM). Analysts predict that North Korea will follow suit, flexing its military muscle through this grand parade. Potential new hardware on display may include the ‘Hwasong-20’ ICBM, advanced cruise missiles, next-generation tanks, electronic warfare systems, AI-integrated reconnaissance drones, and tactical attack drones.
South Korea’s Ministry of Unification has confirmed awareness of North Korea’s extensive parade preparations. A Ministry of Unification official stated that they’re closely monitoring North Korea’s preparations for a large-scale parade and the associated events marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party. Further noting that their surveillance efforts remain ongoing.
Reports suggest that foreign dignitaries will be in attendance. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council and a close Putin ally, is expected to represent Moscow. Speculation is rife about potential high-level Chinese representation, with some sources suggesting that members of President Xi Jinping’s inner circle or even Premier Li Qiang might make an appearance.
