North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised the “physically weak but strong-willed” women of his country during an International Women’s Day speech in Pyongyang. His daughter Kim Ju Ae attended the event, fuelling speculation she is being positioned as his successor 

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised the “physically weak but strong-willed” women of his country during an International Women’s Day speech in Pyongyang. His daughter Kim Ju Ae attended the event, fuelling speculation she is being positioned as his successor&nbsp;

‘Physically weak’ but ‘strong willed’: Kim Jong Un delivers his first Women's Day speech — Is he promoting his daughter Ju Ae?

Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, has sparked succession rumours after appearing at major state events in matching attire alongside her father. South Korea says she may be groomed as a future leader, but questions remain.

Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, has sparked succession rumours after appearing at major state events in matching attire alongside her father. South Korea says she may be groomed as a future leader, but questions remain.

Fashion or political symbol? Kim Jong Un, daughter fuel succession rumours with matching jackets

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended a rare party congress with a message for the United States, saying that his country could "get along" with Washington if President Donald Trump's administration would respect Pyongyang's status as a nuclear power. However, Kim shut the door firmly on South Korea, saying his country remains "most hostile" towards the enemy, reported state media on Thursday (Feb 26).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/enemy-can-t-expect-god-s-protection-north-korea-s-kim-jong-un-unveils-monstrous-600-mm-rocket-launcher-1771486189076">Enemy can't expect 'God’s protection': North Korea's Kim Jong Un unveils monstrous 600-mm rocket launcher</a><h2>What did Kim Jong Un say?</h2>According to state media reports, Kim said there was “no reason” North Korea and the United States could not “get along” if Washington recognises Pyongyang’s status as a nuclear-armed state and abandons what he called its hostile policy. If Washington "respects our country's current status as stipulated in the Constitution... and withdraws its hostile policy... there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States", said the Pyongyang leader.The comment comes as speculation builds that Trump could seek a meeting with Kim during a visit to China in April.<h2>Trump-Kim to meet?</h2>While a meeting has not been confirmed, Trump has earlier signalled he would "100 per cent" be open to talks with North Korea. He has even described North Korea as “sort of a nuclear power,” language that breaks with years of US policy. A fresh meeting would mark a dramatic turn after diplomacy stalled following the failed 2019 summit in Hanoi, where a deal for sanctions relief in exchange for denuclearisation proved impossible to reach.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-kim-jong-un-s-sister-kim-yo-jong-promoted-at-party-congress-amid-heir-speculation-1771898372564">North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong promoted at party congress amid heir speculation</a><h2>What did Kim Jong Un say about South Korea?</h2>While expressing flexibility with the United States, Kim was blunt about South Korea. He declared that Pyongyang would “permanently exclude” Seoul as one of his nation's "compatriots" and called it the North’s “most hostile” enemy. He insisted that North Korea had "absolutely no business dealing with South Korea, its most hostile entity". Recent gestures from the South, he said, were "deceptive".The rhetoric follows a 2024 constitutional revision that formally labelled South Korea a "hostile state," a significant shift from decades of language about eventual reunification. &nbsp;

Can North Korea and the US “get along” again? At a rare party congress, Kim Jong Un signalled openness toward Washington but struck a sharply different tone on South Korea.

What exactly did he say, and what could it mean for future talks? Scroll down to read more.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended a rare party congress with a message for the United States, saying that his country could "get along" with Washington if President Donald Trump's administration would respect Pyongyang's status as a nuclear power. However, Kim shut the door firmly on South Korea, saying his country remains "most hostile" towards the enemy, reported state media on Thursday (Feb 26). Also read | Enemy can't expect 'God’s protection': North Korea's Kim Jong Un unveils monstrous 600-mm rocket launcher What did Kim Jong Un say? According to state media reports, Kim said there was “no reason” North Korea and the United States could not “get along” if Washington recognises Pyongyang’s status as a nuclear-armed state and abandons what he called its hostile policy. If Washington "respects our country's current status as stipulated in the Constitution... and withdraws its hostile policy... there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States", said the Pyongyang leader. The comment comes as speculation builds that Trump could seek a meeting with Kim during a visit to China in April. Trump-Kim to meet? While a meeting has not been confirmed, Trump has earlier signalled he would "100 per cent" be open to talks with North Korea. He has even described North Korea as “sort of a nuclear power,” language that breaks with years of US policy. A fresh meeting would mark a dramatic turn after diplomacy stalled following the failed 2019 summit in Hanoi, where a deal for sanctions relief in exchange for denuclearisation proved impossible to reach. Also read | North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong promoted at party congress amid heir speculation What did Kim Jong Un say about South Korea? While expressing flexibility with the United States, Kim was blunt about South Korea. He declared that Pyongyang would “permanently exclude” Seoul as one of his nation's "compatriots" and called it the North’s “most hostile” enemy. He insisted that North Korea had "absolutely no business dealing with South Korea, its most hostile entity". Recent gestures from the South, he said, were "deceptive". The rhetoric follows a 2024 constitutional revision that formally labelled South Korea a "hostile state," a significant shift from decades of language about eventual reunification.

Can North Korea and the US “get along” again? At a rare party congress, Kim Jong Un signalled openness toward Washington but struck a sharply different tone on South Korea.What exactly did he say, and what could it mean for future talks? Scroll down to read more.

Can North Korea and the US 'get along' again? Kim says it's possible, but only if Trump recognised Pyongyang as nuclear state

North Korea has announced the appointment of Kim Yo Jong as a department director at a recent Workers’ Party congress, reinforcing her growing influence within the country’s political hierarchy. The move signals continued consolidation of power within the ruling leadership and highlights her prominent role in policy messaging and party affairs.


North Korea: Kim Yo Jong Appointed Department Director at Party Congress 

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, has been promoted within the ruling Workers’ Party, state media reported Tuesday (Feb 24). This comes on the heels of South Korea’s spy agency report that the North Korean leader has selected his teen daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his successor.<h2>Kim Jong Un's sister promoted inside the party</h2>According to the Korean Central News Agency, the party’s Central Committee named Kim Yo Jong as a full department director. Previously, she was a deputy department director. The announcement came during a rare party congress in Pyongyang, a once-in-five-years gathering that sets policy on everything from economic planning to military strategy.The congress is only the ninth of its kind under the Kim family’s decades-long rule. Thousands of party elites are attending, offering an unusual glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world’s most opaque governments.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kim-jong-un-s-teen-heiress-vs-ruthless-aunt-inside-north-korea-s-deadly-succession-war-1771234403560">Kim Jong Un’s teen heiress vs ruthless aunt: Inside North Korea’s deadly succession war</a><h2>Who will be North Korea's next leader?</h2>Kim Yo Jong has long been considered one of her brother’s most trusted confidants. Educated in Switzerland alongside Kim Jong Un, she rose quickly after he took power in 2011 following the death of their father, Kim Jong Il. Over the years, she has become a key public voice for Pyongyang, issuing sharp statements directed at Seoul and Washington.She briefly stepped onto the global stage in 2018 when she visited South Korea during the PyeongChang Winter Olympics, a period marked by warmer inter-Korean ties.Attention at the congress is not limited to her promotion. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has said Kim’s teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, may be undergoing preparation as a potential successor. Believed to be around 13, she has appeared at missile tests and high-profile state events since 2022.Meanwhile, analysts note that Kim Yo Jong, seen as the second most powerful figure in the country, commands significant political and military backing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revealed-at-least-6-epstein-secret-storage-units-missed-by-fbi-what-are-they-hiding-unseen-pics-of-young-victims-blackmail-material-powerful-men-1771892294014">REVEALED! At least 6 Epstein secret storage units missed by FBI. What are they hiding?</a><h2>North Korea's nuclear future to be unveiled</h2>Later in the congress, Kim Jong Un is expected to outline the next phase of North Korea’s nuclear programme. At the previous gathering five years ago, he labelled the United States his country’s "biggest enemy." &nbsp;

Kim Yo Jong has been promoted to full department director in North Korea’s ruling party, amid swirling succession questions. South Korea’s spy agency says Kim Ju Ae may be groomed as heir, setting up a potential power tussle inside Pyongyang.

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, has been promoted within the ruling Workers’ Party, state media reported Tuesday (Feb 24). This comes on the heels of South Korea’s spy agency report that the North Korean leader has selected his teen daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his successor. Kim Jong Un's sister promoted inside the party According to the Korean Central News Agency, the party’s Central Committee named Kim Yo Jong as a full department director. Previously, she was a deputy department director. The announcement came during a rare party congress in Pyongyang, a once-in-five-years gathering that sets policy on everything from economic planning to military strategy. The congress is only the ninth of its kind under the Kim family’s decades-long rule. Thousands of party elites are attending, offering an unusual glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world’s most opaque governments. Also read | Kim Jong Un’s teen heiress vs ruthless aunt: Inside North Korea’s deadly succession war Who will be North Korea's next leader? Kim Yo Jong has long been considered one of her brother’s most trusted confidants. Educated in Switzerland alongside Kim Jong Un, she rose quickly after he took power in 2011 following the death of their father, Kim Jong Il. Over the years, she has become a key public voice for Pyongyang, issuing sharp statements directed at Seoul and Washington. She briefly stepped onto the global stage in 2018 when she visited South Korea during the PyeongChang Winter Olympics, a period marked by warmer inter-Korean ties. Attention at the congress is not limited to her promotion. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has said Kim’s teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, may be undergoing preparation as a potential successor. Believed to be around 13, she has appeared at missile tests and high-profile state events since 2022. Meanwhile, analysts note that Kim Yo Jong, seen as the second most powerful figure in the country, commands significant political and military backing. Also read | REVEALED! At least 6 Epstein secret storage units missed by FBI. What are they hiding? North Korea's nuclear future to be unveiled Later in the congress, Kim Jong Un is expected to outline the next phase of North Korea’s nuclear programme. At the previous gathering five years ago, he labelled the United States his country’s "biggest enemy."

Kim Yo Jong has been promoted to full department director in North Korea’s ruling party, amid swirling succession questions. South Korea’s spy agency says Kim Ju Ae may be groomed as heir, setting up a potential power tussle inside Pyongyang.

North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong promoted at party congress amid heir speculation

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been re-elected as the general secretary of the ruling Workers' Party at a rare congress, state media said on Monday. 

The decision was made on Sunday - day four of the congress - "in accordance with the unshakable will and unanimous desire of all the delegates", the Korean Central News Agency said.

Kim Jong Un Re-Elected as Party Chief Vows to Improve Living Standards

North Korea has unveiled a new 600mm multiple rocket launcher system that state media claims can carry tactical nuclear warheads and place all of South Korea within range. The display comes after recent hypersonic and ballistic missile tests, the unveiling of the Hwasong-20 ICBM, and images of a nuclear-powered submarine. What does this latest show of strength mean for regional security?


North Korea Unveils Nuclear-Capable 600mm Rocket System 

North Korea has unveiled an upgraded 600mm rocket launcher with a 400 km strike range and possible nuclear capability. Leader Kim Jong Un called it fit for “strategic missions,” highlighting its destructive power. Here's all we know about its features.

North Korea has unveiled an upgraded 600mm rocket launcher with a 400 km strike range and possible nuclear capability. Leader Kim Jong Un called it fit for “strategic missions,” highlighting its destructive power. Here's all we know about its features.

Enemy can't expect 'God’s protection': North Korea's Kim Jong Un unveils monstrous 600-mm rocket launcher

North Korea says it has completed a new housing district in Pyongyang for families of soldiers killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. Leader Kim Jong Un described the project as a tribute to the war dead. The development signals deepening ties between North Korea and Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.


North Korea's Kim Opens Housing Areas For Families Of Soldiers Killed in Ukraine War 

Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is reportedly being groomed as North Korea’s next leader, but experts warn she could face a fierce power struggle with her influential aunt, Kim Yo Jong.

Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is reportedly being groomed as North Korea’s next leader, but experts warn she could face a fierce power struggle with her influential aunt, Kim Yo Jong.

Kim Jong Un’s teen heiress vs ruthless aunt: Inside North Korea’s deadly succession war

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has paid tribute to troops reportedly involved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, signaling Pyongyang’s political alignment and military support. The gesture underscores North Korea’s growing involvement and strategic positioning amid the ongoing war in Eastern Europe.


N Korea Supremo Pays Respect to Troops Fighting in Russia-Ukraine War

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits an under-construction military memorial to pay tribute to the country’s troops. The supreme leader praised the bravery and dedication of soldiers, emphasizing loyalty and commitment to the nation. Watch the latest from Pyongyang on this historic visit.


N Korea Supremo Kim Jong Un Visits Under-Construction Memorial | Kim Hails Bravery of Soldiers 

North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has announced the next phase of the country’s nuclear program, signaling a significant escalation in regional tensions.

North Korea: Leader Kim Jong Un Flags Next Nuclear Phase

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has showcased a rare softer public tone after praising a resort project he had previously criticised.


Kim Jong Un's Soft Side on Diplay, Praises Resort He Once Criticised | WION

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged to "unconditionally support" Russian President Vladimir Putin and all his policies and decisions, according to Pyongyang state media on Friday (Jan 9). Kim's statement comes as the war in Ukraine grinds on.<h2>What did Kim say?</h2>In a letter published on Friday by North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency, Kim described his relationship with Putin as one built on "true comradely relations" and called ties between the two countries the "most precious ones."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-beware-denmark-soldiers-will-shoot-first-ask-questions-later-if-us-tries-to-invade-greenland-1767862463458">Trump Beware! Denmark soldiers will 'shoot first, ask questions later' if US tries to invade Greenland</a>He said "close cooperation" between North Korea and Russia would continue to deepen across "various spheres," and left little room for ambiguity about where Pyongyang stands. "I will unconditionally respect and unconditionally support all your policies and decisions and I have a willingness to be always with you for the sake of you and your Russia," Kim wrote. "This choice will be constant and permanent."The letter was sent in response to a message from Putin, though Russian state media has not released the contents of the original note.<h2>North Korea-Russia ties deepen with Kim-Putin bromance</h2>The exchange comes against the backdrop of North Korea's growing role in Russia's war effort. In his New Year message, Kim had said that the two nations shared "blood, life and death" in the Ukraine war. Putin, meanwhile, hailed the "invincible friendship" between the two countries.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sends-submarine-to-shadow-oil-tanker-chased-by-us-near-venezuela-watch-1767779992738">Russia sends submarine to shadow oil tanker chased by US near Venezuela | Watch</a>South Korean and Western intelligence agencies have said Pyongyang has already sent thousands of troops to support Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, now approaching its fourth year. In addition to troops, Pyongyang is believed to have supplied Russia with artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems. In return, Russia is thought to be providing North Korea with a mix of financial assistance, military technology and basic supplies, including food and energy supplies.

Kim Jong Un has pledged unconditional support for Vladimir Putin, calling the ties between Russia and North Korea “permanent” and “comradely.” 

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged to "unconditionally support" Russian President Vladimir Putin and all his policies and decisions, according to Pyongyang state media on Friday (Jan 9). Kim's statement comes as the war in Ukraine grinds on. What did Kim say? In a letter published on Friday by North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency, Kim described his relationship with Putin as one built on "true comradely relations" and called ties between the two countries the "most precious ones." Also read | Trump Beware! Denmark soldiers will 'shoot first, ask questions later' if US tries to invade Greenland He said "close cooperation" between North Korea and Russia would continue to deepen across "various spheres," and left little room for ambiguity about where Pyongyang stands. "I will unconditionally respect and unconditionally support all your policies and decisions and I have a willingness to be always with you for the sake of you and your Russia," Kim wrote. "This choice will be constant and permanent." The letter was sent in response to a message from Putin, though Russian state media has not released the contents of the original note. North Korea-Russia ties deepen with Kim-Putin bromance The exchange comes against the backdrop of North Korea's growing role in Russia's war effort. In his New Year message, Kim had said that the two nations shared "blood, life and death" in the Ukraine war. Putin, meanwhile, hailed the "invincible friendship" between the two countries. Also read | Russia sends submarine to shadow oil tanker chased by US near Venezuela | Watch South Korean and Western intelligence agencies have said Pyongyang has already sent thousands of troops to support Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, now approaching its fourth year. In addition to troops, Pyongyang is believed to have supplied Russia with artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems. In return, Russia is thought to be providing North Korea with a mix of financial assistance, military technology and basic supplies, including food and energy supplies.

Kim Jong Un has pledged unconditional support for Vladimir Putin, calling the ties between Russia and North Korea “permanent” and “comradely.”&nbsp;

Kim Jong Un pledges 'unconditional support' to Vladimir Putin as Ukraine war drags on

North Korea's 2026 missile tests show a move toward tactical nuclear use and mass production. Kim Jong Un aims to cement the nation as a permanent nuclear power through new five-year goals.

North Korea's 2026 missile tests show a move toward tactical nuclear use and mass production. Kim Jong Un aims to cement the nation as a permanent nuclear power through new five-year goals.

'North Korea’s missile tests': What they reveals about its long-term strategy

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was inspecting the construction of a memorial for North Korean troops recently, where he gave a lift to his daughter and staff members on a forklift. Images released by KCNA show Ju Ae and some officials standing on a forklift, several inches above the ground, while Kim Jong Un handled the steering wheel. It was a strange scene and an amusing picture as the North Korean leader drove the forklift. The memorial is being built for troops who died ​fighting overseas, KCNA reported. He was there with his daughter Ju Ae and some members of his entourage. Notably, Pyongyang has a mutual ​defence pact with Russia, as part of which North Korea sent around ⁠14,000 soldiers to join the Russian troops against Ukraine. According to South Korean, Ukrainian and Western sources, more ‍than 6,000 of ​them were killed.<h2>Kim termed North Korean soldiers heroes</h2>At the site, Kim called these soldiers "heroes who sacrificed ‍themselves ‍without hesitation". He added, "No in the world can overcome such an army that is absolutely loyal to the orders of the party". Russia and North Korea share close military and security relations and are countries that stand against the West. Pyongyang has stood with Moscow in its war against Ukraine and even sent its workers to help with other jobs since there is a lack of workforce due to the war. North Korea and Russia signed the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-missile-launch-justified-reaction-to-recent-geopolitical-crisis-1767608452926/embed&nbsp;At the memorial, Kim participated in tree-planting with his daughter Ju Ae. She wore a red muffler and can be seen shovelling earth with her father in the photos released by state media. Recently, a photo exhibition detailing North Korea's progress under Kim also opened in Pyongyang. Meanwhile, the country tested more ballistic missiles on Monday with Kim watching the first such test this year. South Korea and Japan reported that they detected two hypersonic missiles. Kim said these tests showed that DPRK's (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) nuclear forces were ready to take on the enemies.&nbsp;

Kim Jong Un was seen operating a forklift at the memorial site for slain soldiers, with his daughter and staff standing on it. He liften them up several inches above the ground as well, as seen in bizarre pictures released by KCNA.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was inspecting the construction of a memorial for North Korean troops recently, where he gave a lift to his daughter and staff members on a forklift. Images released by KCNA show Ju Ae and some officials standing on a forklift, several inches above the ground, while Kim Jong Un handled the steering wheel. It was a strange scene and an amusing picture as the North Korean leader drove the forklift. The memorial is being built for troops who died fighting overseas, KCNA reported. He was there with his daughter Ju Ae and some members of his entourage. Notably, Pyongyang has a mutual defence pact with Russia, as part of which North Korea sent around ⁠14,000 soldiers to join the Russian troops against Ukraine. According to South Korean, Ukrainian and Western sources, more ‍than 6,000 of them were killed. Kim termed North Korean soldiers heroes At the site, Kim called these soldiers "heroes who sacrificed ‍themselves ‍without hesitation". He added, "No in the world can overcome such an army that is absolutely loyal to the orders of the party". Russia and North Korea share close military and security relations and are countries that stand against the West. Pyongyang has stood with Moscow in its war against Ukraine and even sent its workers to help with other jobs since there is a lack of workforce due to the war. North Korea and Russia signed the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024. https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-missile-launch-justified-reaction-to-recent-geopolitical-crisis-1767608452926/embed At the memorial, Kim participated in tree-planting with his daughter Ju Ae. She wore a red muffler and can be seen shovelling earth with her father in the photos released by state media. Recently, a photo exhibition detailing North Korea's progress under Kim also opened in Pyongyang. Meanwhile, the country tested more ballistic missiles on Monday with Kim watching the first such test this year. South Korea and Japan reported that they detected two hypersonic missiles. Kim said these tests showed that DPRK's (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) nuclear forces were ready to take on the enemies.

Kim Jong Un was seen operating a forklift at the memorial site for slain soldiers, with his daughter and staff standing on it. He lifted them up several inches above the ground as well, as seen in bizarre pictures released by KCNA.

Bizarre photos show Kim Jong Un lifting daughter Ju Ae and staff on a forklift

Trump foreign policy 2026, Iran nuclear threat, North Korea hypersonic missiles, US national security, global conflict risk 2026

Trump foreign policy 2026, Iran nuclear threat, North Korea hypersonic missiles, US national security, global conflict risk 2026

'Iran or North Korea': Who is a bigger threat for Donald Trump's America in 2026?

North Korea defended its recent missile launch as a justified response to the "recent geopolitical crisis" triggered by the U.S. military strike and capture of Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro. Pyongyang framed the test as a key strategic move amid escalating global tensions following Washington's intervention in Caracas. 

North Korea Missile Launch Justified: 'Reaction to Recent Geopolitical Crisis' 

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appeared with his daughter Ju Ae at the Kumsusan mausoleum on New Year’s Day, a rare and symbolic outing that has reignited speculation over succession in Pyongyang.


Kim Jong Un’s Daughter Steps Into Spotlight at Mausoleum, Fuels Succession Talk 

The North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has praised his troops fighting abroad as forging an “invincible alliance” with Russia in the New Year’s message, state media said on Thursday. According to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies, Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to support Russia’s nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine. At least 600 North Korean soldiers have died, and thousands more have sustained injuries, according to South Korean estimates. North Korea is said to be receiving financial aid, military technology, and food and energy supplies from Russia in return for the military assistance, say analysts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-vows-to-reunify-china-and-taiwan-urges-for-growth-in-new-year-s-eve-speech-1767193882182">Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech</a>&nbsp;Kim praised his soldiers fighting in an “alien land”, while hailing their “heroic” defence of the nation’s honour and instructing them to “be brave”, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow‘</h2>&nbsp;“As the whole country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere of greeting the new year, I all the more miss you, who are fighting bravely on the battlefields in the alien land even at this moment,” he said, according to KCNA.“Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” Kim added.&nbsp;The North Korean leader praised soldiers for strengthening the “invincible alliance” with Russia, calling on them to fight “for the fraternal Russian people”.Kim further hinted that more overseas action would take place this year, highlighting “remarkable feats you will perform on the overseas battlefields”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-and-burkina-faso-retaliate-to-trump-s-action-ban-entry-for-us-citizens-1767187487091">Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens</a>&nbsp;Kim marked the new year with a lavish celebration and speech at Pyongyang’s May Day stadium, reported state media. Images shared by KCNA showed Kim accompanied by his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and his daughter Ju Ae, who is widely believed to be his likely successor.&nbsp;<h2>‘Soldiers told to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoners’</h2>&nbsp;North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue.However, several accounts of the real situation paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe.Pyongyang has ordered its soldiers to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoner, according to South Korea’s intelligence service and accounts by two North Koreans captured by Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-successfully-conducts-salvo-launch-of-indigenously-developed-pralay-missiles-off-odisha-coast-1767182736639">DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast</a>&nbsp;The two men, held captive by Kyiv since January 2025 after sustaining injuries on the battlefield, have expressed a desire to defect to the South.

North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue. However, several accounts paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe.

The North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has praised his troops fighting abroad as forging an “invincible alliance” with Russia in the New Year’s message, state media said on Thursday. According to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies, Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to support Russia’s nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine. At least 600 North Korean soldiers have died, and thousands more have sustained injuries, according to South Korean estimates. North Korea is said to be receiving financial aid, military technology, and food and energy supplies from Russia in return for the military assistance, say analysts. Also Read: Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech Kim praised his soldiers fighting in an “alien land”, while hailing their “heroic” defence of the nation’s honour and instructing them to “be brave”, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. ‘Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow‘ “As the whole country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere of greeting the new year, I all the more miss you, who are fighting bravely on the battlefields in the alien land even at this moment,” he said, according to KCNA. “Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” Kim added. The North Korean leader praised soldiers for strengthening the “invincible alliance” with Russia, calling on them to fight “for the fraternal Russian people”. Kim further hinted that more overseas action would take place this year, highlighting “remarkable feats you will perform on the overseas battlefields”. Also Read: Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens Kim marked the new year with a lavish celebration and speech at Pyongyang’s May Day stadium, reported state media. Images shared by KCNA showed Kim accompanied by his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and his daughter Ju Ae, who is widely believed to be his likely successor. ‘Soldiers told to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoners’ North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue. However, several accounts of the real situation paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe. Pyongyang has ordered its soldiers to kill themselves rather than be taken prisoner, according to South Korea’s intelligence service and accounts by two North Koreans captured by Ukraine. Also Read: DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast The two men, held captive by Kyiv since January 2025 after sustaining injuries on the battlefield, have expressed a desire to defect to the South.

North Korea’s deepening alliance with Russia has offered an economic lifeline to Kim’s regime and allowed him to rebuff US and South Korean overtures for dialogue. However, several accounts paint a grim picture for the North Korean soldiers fighting the bloodiest war in Europe.

Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for increased missile production, describing it as a key “war deterrent” amid rising regional tensions.

Kim Jong Un Pushes More Missile Production As 'War Deterrent' 

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered a radical expansion of missile and shell production for 2026. This directive comes on the heels of the unveiling of a massive 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine, marking a new era for Pyongyang's naval forces. 

North Korea's 2026 War Deterrent: Kim Jong Un Orders Massive Missile Production Surge

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered his officials to step up production of missiles and artillery shells and construct more factories to meet his military’s growing need for the weapons, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has reported.

Kim Jong Un Pushes More Missile Production as 'War Deterrent'

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a nuclear submarine factory and received a message from Russia's Vladimir Putin hailing the countries' "invincible friendship", Pyongyang's state media said Thursday.


Kim Jong Un visits nuclear submarine factory

North Korea sent troops to clear mines in Russia's Kursk region earlier this year, leader Kim Jong Un said in a speech carried on Saturday by state media, a rare acknowledgement by Pyongyang of the deadly tasks assigned to its deployed soldiers.North Korea has sent thousands of troops to support Russia's nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine, according to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies.Analysts say Russia is giving North Korea financial aid, military technology, food and energy supplies in return, allowing the diplomatically isolated nation to sidestep tough international sanctions on its nuclear and missile programmes.Hailing the return of an engineering regiment, Kim noted that they wrote "letters to their hometowns and villages at breaks of the mine-clearing hours", according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).Nine members of the regiment died during the 120-day deployment that started in August, Kim said in his speech at a welcome ceremony on Friday, KCNA reported.He awarded the deceased state honours to "add eternal lustre" to their bravery."All of you, both officers and soldiers, displayed mass heroism overcoming unimaginable mental and physical burdens almost every day," Kim said.The troops had been able to "work a miracle of turning a vast area of danger zone into a safe and secure one in a matter of less than three months".Images released by KCNA showed a smiling Kim embracing returned soldiers, some of whom appeared injured and in wheelchairs, at the ceremony in Pyongyang on Friday.One of them looked visibly emotional as Kim held his head and hand while he sat in a wheelchair in a military uniform.Other images showed Kim consoling families of the deceased and kneeling before a portrait of a fallen soldier to pay his respects, placing what appeared to be medals and flowers beside images of the dead.The North Korean leader also mentioned the "pain of waiting for one hundred and twenty days in which he had never forgotten the beloved sons even for a moment."<h2>Killed in combat</h2>In September, Kim appeared alongside China's Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at an elaborate military parade in Beijing.Kim did not respond to an offer from Donald Trump to meet during the US President's Asia trip in October.North Korea only confirmed in April that it had deployed troops to support Russia and that its soldiers had been killed in combat.At a previous ceremony in August, images released by KCNA showed an emotional Kim embracing a returned soldier who appeared overwhelmed, burying his face in the leader's chest.In early July, state media showed a visibly emotional Kim honouring flag-draped coffins, apparently of the deceased soldiers returning home.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In September, Kim appeared alongside China's Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at an elaborate military parade in Beijing.

North Korea sent troops to clear mines in Russia's Kursk region earlier this year, leader Kim Jong Un said in a speech carried on Saturday by state media, a rare acknowledgement by Pyongyang of the deadly tasks assigned to its deployed soldiers. North Korea has sent thousands of troops to support Russia's nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine, according to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies. Analysts say Russia is giving North Korea financial aid, military technology, food and energy supplies in return, allowing the diplomatically isolated nation to sidestep tough international sanctions on its nuclear and missile programmes. Hailing the return of an engineering regiment, Kim noted that they wrote "letters to their hometowns and villages at breaks of the mine-clearing hours", according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Nine members of the regiment died during the 120-day deployment that started in August, Kim said in his speech at a welcome ceremony on Friday, KCNA reported. He awarded the deceased state honours to "add eternal lustre" to their bravery. "All of you, both officers and soldiers, displayed mass heroism overcoming unimaginable mental and physical burdens almost every day," Kim said. The troops had been able to "work a miracle of turning a vast area of danger zone into a safe and secure one in a matter of less than three months". Images released by KCNA showed a smiling Kim embracing returned soldiers, some of whom appeared injured and in wheelchairs, at the ceremony in Pyongyang on Friday. One of them looked visibly emotional as Kim held his head and hand while he sat in a wheelchair in a military uniform. Other images showed Kim consoling families of the deceased and kneeling before a portrait of a fallen soldier to pay his respects, placing what appeared to be medals and flowers beside images of the dead. The North Korean leader also mentioned the "pain of waiting for one hundred and twenty days in which he had never forgotten the beloved sons even for a moment." Killed in combat In September, Kim appeared alongside China's Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at an elaborate military parade in Beijing. Kim did not respond to an offer from Donald Trump to meet during the US President's Asia trip in October. North Korea only confirmed in April that it had deployed troops to support Russia and that its soldiers had been killed in combat. At a previous ceremony in August, images released by KCNA showed an emotional Kim embracing a returned soldier who appeared overwhelmed, burying his face in the leader's chest. In early July, state media showed a visibly emotional Kim honouring flag-draped coffins, apparently of the deceased soldiers returning home. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In September, Kim appeared alongside China's Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at an elaborate military parade in Beijing.

Kim Jong-un acknowledges North Korean troops clearing landmines for Russia

South Korea's government has announced that it has finalised an agreement to build nuclear-powered submarines in partnership with the United States. The US has approved the "attack submarines" and agreed to cooperate in sourcing fuel, according to a fact sheet released by the White House 

North Korea says Seoul-US submarine deal to trigger 'nuclear domino' effect

North Korea on Friday fired a suspected short-range ballistic missile toward its eastern waters, South Korea’s military said, as Pyongyang steps up its testing activity while talks with Washington and Seoul remain stalled.


Seoul says North Korea launched missile from near Chinese border

South Korea has warned that North Korea is fully prepared to conduct another nuclear test, awaiting only a final decision from leader Kim Jong Un. Intelligence sources indicate that Pyongyang has completed all necessary preparations at its nuclear test site. This move comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing military drills between South Korea, the United States, and Japan. A potential test would mark North Korea’s first in years, escalating fears of a new security crisis in East Asia.


South Korea warns North Korea ready for 7th nuclear test

US President Donald Trump said that the timing did not work out for a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. While earlier discussions hinted at a potential Trump-Kim summit, scheduling conflicts and diplomatic considerations have delayed the meeting.

North Korea Responds To Trump's Meeting Offer With Missile Launch

US President Donald Trump said that the timing did not work out for a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. While earlier discussions hinted at a potential Trump-Kim summit, scheduling conflicts and diplomatic considerations have delayed the meeting.


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