The South Korean military says it has confirmed that North Korea is preparing for a military parade involving tens of thousands of people. The event would mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party on October 10.
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Thursday that it had detected military equipment and the movement of vehicles, and that the parade will likely take place at night.
In September, NHK obtained satellite images taken by US firm Planet Labs PBC. They show a large number of military vehicles at an airfield on the outskirts of Pyongyang.
If the North conducts the military parade, it would be the first since 2023.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw an engine combustion test for the next-generation Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile in September. He also reportedly said his country acquired new secret weapons.
Experts are paying attention to whether the North will showcase those weapons.
South Korean government sources say senior Chinese and Russian officials may visit North Korea to observe the parade.

Quiz 1:
What is the occasion for which North Korea is preparing a military parade?
A. The 70th anniversary of the ruling Workers' Party
B. The 80th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party
C. The 50th anniversary of the ruling Workers' Party
D. The 90th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party

Quiz 2:
Where did NHK obtain satellite images showing a large number of military vehicles?
A. An airfield on the outskirts of Pyongyang
B. An airfield in the center of Pyongyang
C. An airfield near the border of North and South Korea
D. An airfield in the eastern part of North Korea

Quiz 3:
Which of the following statements about North Korea's military parade is correct?
A. It will take place during the day
B. It has not been confirmed to take place
C. It will likely take place at night
D. It will take place on October 3