Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed the new year by attending a large public celebration in Pyongyang, according to state media reports released on Wednesday.
The event featured fireworks, music performances, dances and a taekwondo display, with thousands of people taking part in the celebrations. Kim was accompanied by his daughter Kim Ju Ae, whose repeated public appearances alongside her father have drawn attention both inside and outside the country.
In his New Year message, Kim praised what he described as major achievements made by the country over the past year. He called for unity and determination as the nation prepares for the upcoming congress of the ruling Workers’ Party, which is expected to outline key political and military goals for the coming years.
Kim also expressed support for North Korean soldiers deployed abroad, referring to them as heroes and wishing for their safe return. His remarks underlined the country’s growing military cooperation with Russia, a relationship that has strengthened amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Observers say the New Year appearance sends a clear signal about North Korea’s priorities for 2026, with a strong focus on internal unity, military strength and closer ties with key allies, even as the country remains under heavy international sanctions.