[imText1]April 25th marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the People’s Army in North Korea. It seems that a mass parade is being prepared in celebration of this event.
A source from South Korean National Intelligence Service said, “Though I cannot confirm whether a mass military parade will take place in North Korea, it is very clear that a big event is being prepared.”
Further, missiles and military trucks covered in a large tent were verified at an airport near Pyongyang.
According to a Japanese source, “Rumors suggest that a mass military parade is being prepared for the 25th… It seems that an event will take place in relation to this.”
This is the first time such preparations are being made since September 2003, when North Korea showcased a military parade for the 55th anniversary of the government’s inauguration. Last year, October 10th, only a gymnastics parade was held in at Kim Il Song Square in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the founding of North Korean Workers’ Party.
The source said, “There is interest over this parade as rumors suggest that North Korea’s new weapons will be presented” and added, “In particular, I have a feeling that the Taepodong 2 that was fired last July may make an appearance.” Until now, North Korea has not revealed the Taepodong missile to the public.
Another source in North Korea said, “I am aware that a large-scale event, possibly the biggest in history will take place, as this year marks the 95th anniversary of Kim Il Song’s birthday (April 15) and the 75th anniversary of the Chosun (North Korea) People’s Army.”
At the last military parade in 2003, North Korea was supposed to reveal its new long-range missiles, however with pressures from Russia and China, the missiles were not unveiled.
Some speculate that North Korea is trying to strengthen its regime through a mass military parade as well as set dominance over the U.S.-North Korea bilateral talks and six party talks.
