For the first time in decades, North Korea has decided not to hold its annual anti-US imperialism rally which has been a tradition since the regime entrenched its power after the Korean conflict paused in a 65-year stalemate.
Kim Jong Un’s decision to ditch the rally is the latest sign that tensions between the US and North Korea are easing. Observers note it indicates a sincere desire by Kim to continue the positive atmosphere of the historic summit.
The highly charged celebration marks the anniversary of the start of the Korean War. Typically hundreds of thousands attend – pumping their fists, waving flags, marching in step and shouting slogans. It usually also comes with the North’s display of ICBM missiles and other military hardware.
The celebration typically starts July 27, a national holiday in North Korea called the “Victory in the Fatherland Liberation War.”
Kim’s cancellation of the tradition follows President Trump’s decision to halt war games with US troops and the South Korean military while negotiations to denuclearize the North are ongoing.
North Korea’s state run media is broadcasting the message of relaxed tensions across the country.
A 42 minute news special about the Singapore summit between Kim and Trump has aired repeatedly. It’s likely the first time many North Korean’s have seen what President Trump looks like.
News reports are also addressing President Trump differently, calling him by his title and full name instead of just his last name which is how US officials are traditionally referenced by the regime’s media.
North Korea’s change in tone and messaging remains nuanced though.
It is assumed the thawing of relations has not made it to the country’s schools. Children are traditionally indoctrinated with anti-Western propaganda. While the Kim regime is talking less about the need for nuclear weapons, it’s said little about denuclearization, most likely to control the pace at which the population is given to control the new world reality.
