King Charles has conveyed his felicitations to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, marking the anniversary of the founding of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. This gesture comes as part of a long-standing tradition, with Queen Elizabeth II having sent a similar message in 2021.
Royal Message of Goodwill
In a message reported by Reuters and cited by North Korea’s state-run news agency KCNA, King Charles expressed his “good wishes for the future” to the people of North Korea as they celebrate their National Day. This message is in keeping with the standard practice of sending such well-wishes on national days around the world.
Continuation of Tradition
The Buckingham Palace spokesperson noted that the exchange of greetings on such occasions has been a routine practice for the British monarchy. A spokesperson from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reaffirmed that Queen Elizabeth II had also conveyed her message on North Korea’s National Day in previous years.
Global Participation
According to the North Korean state newspaper Rodong Simnun, several other heads of state from around the world extended their congratulations to Kim Jong-un on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the DPRK’s founding. Among them were leaders from Singapore, Nepal, Bahrain, and Mozambique. King Carl Gustaf of Sweden joined in, expressing his best wishes for the future and the welfare of the DPRK’s people.
International Observations
North Korea commemorated its founding anniversary with a midnight paramilitary parade in Pyongyang, where Chinese delegates and Russian artists were invited guests. China, represented by Vice Premier Liu Guozhong, and Russia, sending a military song and dance group, participated in the festivities.
Speculation of a Kim-Putin Summit
South Korean media speculates that the absence of Russian government officials at the celebrations could be related to preparations for a summit between Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Washington anticipates this meeting to occur within the coming month, possibly as early as this week. Vladivostok, the venue of their 2019 summit, is seen as a potential location for their meeting.
Potential for an Unconventional Visit
South Korea’s intelligence agency has suggested that North Korea and Russia may be planning an unanticipated route for Kim Jong-un’s visit to evade media scrutiny. However, North Korea has not yet confirmed any plans for such a visit to Russia.
Positive Regional Outlook
KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un received letters from both President Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, affirming their countries’ commitment to strengthening ties with North Korea for the sake of regional peace and stability.
Notable Parade Highlights
The parade held on Saturday showcased paramilitary organizations and public security forces, focusing on the protection of Pyongyang rather than the display of nuclear-capable weapons systems, as seen in previous parades this year. Photos from the event captured Kim Jong-un sharing smiles and conversations with his young daughter, believed to be named Ju Ae, as they observed the parade from leather chairs positioned on Mr. Kim’s balcony in Kim Il Sung Square, named after his state-founding grandfather.
