North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced that his nation would triumph in its "anti-imperialist, anti-US" fight, as North Korea marked the anniversary of the Korean War armistice, state media said on Sunday.
On a tour of a war museum, Kim reiterated his vision to establish an affluent and militarily strong country, vowing that North Korea would emerge a "honorable victor" in its struggle with the United States. His remarks were broadcast by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), which tends to blow up anti-Western statements during national events.
The Korean War armistice was signed on 27 July 1953 by North Korea, the United States, and China, which effectively brought an end to fighting after three years of bloody war. Although not a peace treaty, the accord restored the border close to the 38th parallel, leaving the Korean Peninsula divided. North Korea observes the date as "Victory Day," even though the war concluded in a military stalemate. South Korea does not officially celebrate the day, however.
Kim honored killed soldiers by laying wreaths at war memorials such as the Tower of Friendship, which is dedicated to Chinese soldiers who fought with North Korea. He also welcomed troops from an artillery battalion to meet on the day.
Tensions are still high in the peninsula, with North Korea now also said to be backing Russia in its current war with Ukraine. Thousands of North Korean soldiers have already been sent to Russia's Kursk area, according to South Korean officials, and are likely to send more in the months ahead.
The North's growing military cooperation with Russia and persistent defiance of Western nations imply that Pyongyang is dedicated to its aggressive posture, both historically and in current hostilities.
