North Korea stages military parade without missiles
North Korea held its third military parade in 12 months to mark its 73rd anniversary. This time around, there was less show of high-tech or missile-based military might — though its troops turned out in force.
No show of nuclear weaponry
There was no show of nuclear weaponry during the toned-down event. Civil defense units, railway ministry detachments, fire brigades, Air Koryo and detachments from the Hungnam Fertilizer Complex were exhibited. Much of the hardware, like these motorcycle sidecars, had a distinct retro and low-budget flavor.
Some weapons on display
Some conventional weapons did make it into the parade. Fighter jets flying in formation above the streets, and artillery pieces hauled by tractors also made an appearance during the event. The vast majority of North Korea's sparse road network is not paved.
Show of military personnel
A part of the parade's paramilitary personnel marched in orange hazmat suits with oxygen masks. North Korea claims not to have suffered a single case of COVID-19. It closed its sometimes-porous border to China early in the pandemic.
Pandemic further cuts off already isolated North Korea
The parade was aimed at a domestic audience this time. Experts say the event reflected challenges the country has faced recently, such as the pandemic and border closures, flooding, and food shortages. South Korean intelligence believe Kim has three children of his own, though even this is unconfirmed.
Fireworks at midnight
As the anniversary struck at midnight, an exhibition of fireworks took place.
Cavalry instead of missiles
Pyongyang has previously used parades as a display of military and nuclear strength. But the sort of weaponry liable to upset Seoul, the United States and the West was conspicuously absent on Thursday, with cavalry and other units at the forefront. Some speculated that this could be a sign that the reclusive nation is open to peace talks with the US and South Korea.