PYONGYANG, North Korea — North Korea is holding what is expected to be one of its biggest celebrations ever today for the 70th anniversary of its ruling party’s creation, an attention-getting event that is the government’s way of showing the world and its own people the Kim dynasty — now in its third generation — is firmly in control and its military a power to be reckoned with.
The military parade kicking off the celebrations could hold some surprises for analysts abroad who will be watching its display of weaponry, particularly its growing fleet of drone aircraft and long-range missiles, very closely.
The guest list is shaping up to be less impressive.
While no world leaders will be attending — North Korean ally China is sending a senior Communist Party official, not its head of state, or even vice premier — the normally isolated and quiet North Korean capital has been flooded by tourists, international media and delegations ranging from ethnic Koreans living abroad to obscure Russian and Mongolian groups dedicated to studying North Korea’s political ideas.
Right up to the last minute, North Korean officials refused to divulge details of the day’s plans.
