North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended New Year celebrations in Pyongyang marked by fireworks, performances, and martial arts displays, state media reported Thursday, using the event to highlight national unity ahead of a key ruling party meeting expected later this year.
According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim was joined by his daughter Ju Ae during the festivities, which featured patriotic songs, dances, and a taekwondo demonstration. Photographs released by state media showed the pair sitting together, holding hands, and greeting children during the event.
In a New Year address delivered during the celebrations, Kim praised what he described as significant achievements made by the country in 2025. He said those efforts had produced successes and notable changes, and urged citizens to remain united as the leadership prepares for an important political gathering.
Kim pointed to an upcoming congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, expected to take place in early 2026, which is set to outline the country’s policy direction for the next five years.
North Korea is widely expected to use the ninth party congress to present plans related to its military programs, including nuclear and weapons development, as well as economic policy, according to previous state media reporting and assessments by international analysts.
KCNA also said Kim sent a New Year message to North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in the war in Ukraine, offering praise and encouragement.
Calling the soldiers the country’s “greatest strength and pride,” Kim said they were a vital pillar of the nation and expressed hope for their safe return. “Be brave. Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” Kim said, according to KCNA.
The deployment of North Korean forces to support Russia has drawn international attention and concern, with Western governments accusing Pyongyang of deepening military cooperation with Moscow amid the ongoing conflict.
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Kim’s appearance with his daughter once again fueled discussion among observers about her growing public profile. Ju Ae has accompanied him at several high profile events in recent years, leading some analysts to view her as a potential future leader, though North Korea has made no official statement on succession.
KCNA also reported that Kim received New Year greeting cards from several foreign leaders, including the Chinese president and his wife, without providing further details.