North Korean leader Kim Jong-un participated in a field artillery competition during Taeyangjeol celebrations on April 15, marking the birthday of state founder Kim Il-sung. He stressed the need to accelerate preparations for Saumok across the entire military.
Key Directives at the Event
Kim Jong-un directly oversaw the competition, which serves as a critical training exercise aligned with full-scale operational exchanges for all army units. Officials emphasized his call for field artillery subunits to achieve complete combat readiness for Saumok, leaving no gaps in preparations.
“Field artillery subunits must push forward with Saumok preparations in full, embracing the mindset of flawless all-round posture despite any challenges,” Kim Jong-un stated.
Broader Military Push
The leader urged personnel to receive policy shifts in field artillery and intensify efforts toward Saumok full readiness, even amid public hardships. “Our people must take even greater strides in field artillery advancements and Saumok preparations, no matter the circumstances,” he added.
This marks a historic first for such a competition during North Korea’s largest national festival. Kim Jong-un’s involvement in Taeyangjeol artillery events continues, with this being the fourth since 2023.
Additional Activities
Following the event, Kim Jong-un did not visit the Kim Il-sung statue. Instead, he met with 114 martyr descendants, including Workers’ Party Central Committee chief Park Tae-seong and other senior officials, at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun on April 15. He extended flower baskets and expressed interest, though specific details on participation remain undisclosed.
