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On Friday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un asserted that the nation would utilize its full military might to obliterate any adversaries resorting to force against it, as he commemorated the founding anniversary of its military, according to state media reports.
Kim conveyed these statements during a visit to the defense ministry on Thursday, urging soldiers to uphold the ideology of the ruling Workers' Party and defend the nation fervently, as per KCNA news agency.
"If adversaries attempt to employ force against our nation, we will decisively alter the course of history and utilize all our formidable power to eliminate them," KCNA quoted him as saying.
Kim reiterated his stance to refrain from engaging in dialogue or negotiations with South Korea, labeling it as the country's "enemy No. 1." He emphasized that maintaining robust military readiness is the sole path to ensure peace and security for North Korea, as reported by KCNA.
At a significant gathering of the ruling party towards the end of 2023, Kim proclaimed the impossibility of peaceful reunification and signaled a policy shift in dealing with the South, marking a significant redefinition of their relationship.
The KCNA report noted Kim's visit to the defense ministry accompanied by his "respected daughter," suggesting the presence of his daughter Ju Ae, who analysts speculate could potentially assume a leadership role in the future.
While North Korea traditionally observes the foundation of its military on Feb. 8, this year, there was no mention of a large-scale event akin to last year's midnight military parade showcasing its largest intercontinental ballistic missiles. However, state media reported a parade of an honor guard for Kim at the defense ministry, along with his attendance at a banquet with military commanders and soldiers to celebrate the anniversary.
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