North Korean troops will take part in the Victory Day military parade in Moscow on May 9, 2025, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK, citing multiple Russian sources.
The event commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II and is a key annual occasion in Russia’s military and diplomatic calendar.
The participation of North Korean military personnel in the parade has reportedly been finalized, with expectations that “dozens” of North Korean troops will be present. If confirmed, this will mark the first time North Korean soldiers have participated in the event.
Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov recently announced that military units from 19 friendly countries were invited to the parade, with 10 nations already confirming their attendance. However, specific countries were not named during his statement.
The participation of North Korea in Russia’s Victory Day celebrations reflects the growing military and strategic partnership between the two nations. The two countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty, which includes provisions for mutual military assistance in the event of an attack.
Pyongyang has reportedly dispatched soldiers to Russia as Moscow continues its military operations in Ukraine. Diplomatic sources also suggest that a North Korean military band will participate in a music event in Moscow later in August 2025.
The inclusion of North Korean troops in Russia’s high-profile parade comes amid increasing cooperation between the two countries, raising concerns among Western nations. This collaboration is seen as part of a broader alignment of interests between states that share strained relations with the United States and its allies.