Kim Jong Un and Daughter Inspect Memorial Honoring North Korean Troops Killed Overseas

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, accompanied by his daughter Ju Ae, inspected the construction site of a new memorial dedicated to North Korean soldiers who died while fighting overseas, according to a report released Tuesday by state media outlet KCNA. The visit underscores Pyongyang’s efforts to highlight military loyalty and sacrifice as the country prepares for an upcoming key Workers’ Party congress.

The memorial is intended to honor troops sent abroad under a mutual defense agreement with Russia. In 2024, North Korea reportedly deployed around 14,000 soldiers to support Russian forces in the war in Ukraine. According to estimates from South Korean, Ukrainian, and Western intelligence sources, more than 6,000 North Korean soldiers were killed during the fighting, marking one of the largest overseas military losses in the country’s history.

During the inspection, Kim Jong Un praised the fallen troops, calling them heroes who “sacrificed themselves without hesitation” in service to the state and the ruling party. He emphasized that absolute loyalty to party orders is the foundation of military strength, stating that no force in the world could overcome an army bound by such discipline and devotion. His remarks align with North Korea’s long-standing emphasis on ideological unity and military-first principles.

KCNA photographs from the visit showed Kim and his daughter participating in a tree-planting ceremony at the memorial site. Ju Ae, who has increasingly appeared alongside her father at high-profile state events, was seen wearing a red muffler as she shoveled earth together with Kim. Her presence has fueled continued speculation about her growing public role within the North Korean leadership narrative.

Separately, KCNA reported that a photo exhibition highlighting North Korea’s achievements under Kim Jong Un has opened in Pyongyang. The exhibition showcases economic, military, and political developments and comes as the country builds momentum ahead of the upcoming party congress. Analysts view these events as part of a broader effort to reinforce internal solidarity, legitimize leadership continuity, and frame overseas military involvement as a symbol of national strength and sacrifice.