Kim Jong-un Showcases New Tank Amidst Tensions with South Korea and US

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un witnessed a simulated battle showcasing the country's military capabilities, coinciding with the conclusion of joint drills between South Korea and the United States. The exercise involved heavy tanks navigating simulated combat conditions and firing at targets. Kim reportedly observed the drill from a field command post and actively participated, demonstrating his military leadership.

The exercise featured a new type of tank, which Kim hailed as the "most powerful tank in the world." It was the third time Kim had observed military exercises since the start of the South Korean-US drills, which he views as preparations for an invasion. North Korea has escalated missile launches and belligerent rhetoric in recent months.

South Korea and the United States have maintained that their military drills are solely defensive in nature. Kim expressed satisfaction with the performance of the new tank, praising its striking power and mobility. He also posed with the winning team of camouflage-uniformed troops. The exercise concluded with Kim declaring the 105th Tank Division the victor, the same unit that occupied Seoul during the Korean War.

The joint drills, known as Freedom Shield exercises, were the first since Pyongyang terminated a 2018 inter-Korean military pact aimed at reducing tensions. Defense Minister Kang Sun Nam accompanied Kim at the event, vowing to respond to the drills with "responsible military activities."

Kim's public appearances have increased significantly in recent months, with 11 appearances in three months through February, according to a South Korean study. He has guided artillery firing drills and urged the army to intensify "actual war drills.