North Korean leader Kim Jong Un marked the arrival of the New Year by attending a grand celebration in Pyongyang that featured fireworks, patriotic music, dance performances and a taekwondo display, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Accompanying him at the event was his daughter, Ju Ae, who has increasingly drawn attention from analysts as a possible successor. Images released by state media showed the two seated side by side, holding hands, and warmly interacting with children, reinforcing the growing public prominence of Kim’s daughter in official appearances.
During the celebrations, Kim delivered a speech praising the North Korean people for what he described as significant achievements and “phenomenal changes” over the past year. He stressed the importance of unity and collective effort as the country prepares for a major political event in the near future. Kim noted that an important party congress, expected to be held in early 2026, would chart the nation’s course for the coming years and outline key priorities across sectors, including economic development and military capabilities.
North Korea is widely expected to convene the 9th Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea soon. Such congresses traditionally play a central role in setting policy direction, particularly in areas such as weapons development, national defence strategy and long-term economic planning. Observers believe the upcoming meeting could provide important signals about Pyongyang’s domestic priorities and its stance toward the international community.
Kim also used the occasion to send a New Year message to North Korean soldiers reportedly fighting alongside Russian forces in the war in Ukraine. Describing them as the nation’s “greatest strength and pride,” he praised their role as a pillar of the state and expressed hope for their safe return. “Be brave. Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” Kim said, according to KCNA, underscoring the deepening military ties between North Korea and Russia.
In addition, state media reported that Kim received New Year greeting cards from several world leaders, including the Chinese president and his wife, though no names or further details were disclosed. The messaging and imagery surrounding the celebrations appeared carefully curated to project unity, continuity and confidence as the country looks ahead to a politically significant year.
