North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in Beijing, China, along with his young daughter Kim Ju Ae, who is seen by many as his possible heir. Photos showed Kim and his daughter stepping off his famous armored train at Beijing Railway Station.
Kim is visiting China to attend a big “Victory Day” military parade on Wednesday in Tiananmen Square. The parade will mark the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War Two. Leaders from China, Russia, and many other countries will also attend, making this Kim’s first multilateral international meeting.
Kim travelled in his armoured train, which is known for its luxury. Reports say it has about 90 carriages, including bedrooms, meeting rooms, and even a restaurant serving fine food like lobster and French wine. This slow but heavily protected train has been used by his father Kim Jong Il and grandfather Kim Il Sung, as they preferred it over flying.
Kim’s daughter, who is believed to be around 10 years old, has appeared with him in public many times since 2022. South Korea’s intelligence agency has suggested she is his most likely successor, though very little is known about her.
When Kim arrived, he was warmly welcomed by Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi. North Korean media reported that Kim thanked President Xi Jinping for the hospitality.
This is the first time a North Korean leader has attended a Chinese military parade since 1959. In the past, North Korea usually sent only top officials. Kim’s presence shows closer ties between China, Russia, and North Korea at a time when Western leaders are avoiding the event due to the Ukraine war.
-Peace News Desk