North Korea unveiled its latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-20, during a military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party. The regime hailed it as its most formidable nuclear strategic weapon system to date.
The state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported on October 11 that the grand celebration parade took place the previous night in Kim Il Sung Square.
According to the newspaper, spectators erupted in fervent cheers as the Hwasong-20 ICBM, touted as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s most powerful nuclear deterrent, rolled into the square.
The report detailed how the Chonma-20, a state-of-the-art main battle tank renowned for its impressive offensive capabilities and robust defense systems, followed the ICBM. Artillery units, considered the backbone of North Korea’s military, demonstrated their might with 155mm self-propelled howitzers advancing through the square.
The parade also showcased 600mm (about 24 inches) multiple rocket launchers, hypersonic glide vehicles, and hypersonic medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs).
Rodong Sinmun emphasized that the procession exhibited North Korea’s vast defense technological potential and rapid advancements, as long-range strategic cruise missiles, drone launch vehicles, and various surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missile units marched in succession.
The newspaper underscored that these strategic weapon systems embody the absolute power of North Korea’s self-defense capabilities, which the regime has continuously bolstered to safeguard its right to survival, development, and peace.
During the event, General Secretary Kim Jong Un delivered a speech praising the Korean People’s Army for its unwavering loyalty to the party’s leadership and for its sacrifices in defending the revolution.
The report described how the parade commenced with a stirring performance by a full-scale military band, setting the tone for the event as various branches of the armed forces and units equipped with advanced weaponry lined the thoroughfares adjacent to the square.
Senior officials from the party and government, including Politburo members, key military commanders, leaders of overseas delegations, and veteran officials, were in attendance.
Foreign dignitaries, including representatives from various political parties, governments, international organizations, and groups dedicated to the study of Juche ideology, were also present. Notable attendees included Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.
Prior to the parade, on October 9, a celebratory event featuring fireworks, mass gymnastics, and artistic performances was held at Pyongyang’s May Day Stadium. Although the exact start time of the parade remains unclear, reports suggest that major roads were closed from 9:30 p.m. on October 10, with the event likely concluding after midnight on October 11.