Kim Jong Un Pledges Nuclear Expansion as Daughter Watches Nighttime Military Parade

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed to strengthen his country’s nuclear arsenal on Wednesday while overseeing a military parade in Pyongyang, accompanied by his teenage daughter, widely believed to be Ju Ae.

The parade featured 14,000 troops marching through Kim Il Sung Square, with fighter jets roaring overhead, yet conspicuously absent were the towering intercontinental ballistic missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, or other major weapons systems that typically headline such events.

Nuclear Ambitions Highlighted at Workers’ Party Congress

At the closing of the Ninth Workers’ Party Congress, Kim emphasized the regime’s “firm will” to expand its nuclear capabilities, promising both an increase in the number of weapons and enhanced deployment methods. He reiterated plans for stronger ICBMs, submarine-launched missiles, drones, and AI-driven military systems.

While signaling nuclear strength, Kim also left the door open for talks with Washington—on Pyongyang’s terms. He suggested that improved relations would require the US to recognize North Korea as a nuclear state and abandon what the regime calls its “hostile policy.”

Scaled-Back Parade, Strategic Messaging

State media reported that the parade included goose-stepping troops and ceremonial formations, but no new weapons systems were displayed. Analysts note that this restraint may be deliberate: parades are often used to unveil major upgrades, and a recent anniversary parade already showcased North Korea’s most advanced ICBMs and multiple rocket launchers.

The scaled-back display may also serve as a signal of discipline, political control, and strategic leverage, reinforcing Pyongyang’s narrative of strength without revealing its latest capabilities.

Family and Power Consolidation

Kim’s daughter, Ju Ae, appeared prominently beside him, fueling speculation about her potential role in the regime’s future leadership. Meanwhile, Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, was promoted to director of a key party department, consolidating her influence within the ruling elite.

All senior party and military positions were reshuffled, promoting younger loyalists and reaffirming Kim’s control as he was unanimously re-elected general secretary for another five-year term.