State media reported on Friday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un stated the country would use all its military power to eliminate enemies if they used force against it, as he marked the anniversary of the founding of its military.
During a visit to the defence ministry on Thursday, Kim rallied soldiers to support the ideology of the ruling Workers’ Party and defend the country with their lives, according to KCNA news agency.
“If enemies try to use force against our country, we will make the bold decision to change history and not hesitate to use all our super power to wipe them out,” KCNA quoted Kim as saying.
Kim reiterated a vow to never hold dialogue or negotiations with South Korea, referring to it as his country’s “enemy No. 1,” and stated that powerful military readiness was the only way to ensure peace and security for North Korea, KCNA reported.
At the end of 2023, Kim declared at a major meeting of the ruling party that peaceful reunification is impossible and his country was changing its policy toward the South, redefining its ties with Seoul.
The KCNA report mentioned that Kim visited the defence ministry with his “respected daughter,” indicating he was accompanied by his daughter Ju Ae, who analysts believe may play a future role in the country’s leadership.
North Korea celebrates the foundation of its military on Feb. 8 and last year held a large military parade at midnight, showcasing its largest intercontinental ballistic missiles. State media did not mention a similar large-scale event this year but reported a parade of an honor guard for Kim at the defence ministry. He also attended a banquet with military commanders and soldiers to celebrate the anniversary.
(Reporting by Jack Kim; Editing by Chris Reese and Jamie Freed)
