The choice of Kalma Airport as the venue for the anniversary event was itself meaningful. Kalma is closely associated with recent reconstruction projects and dual-use infrastructure blending civilian tourism development with military utility. By staging the ceremony at a modernized location, Kim projected an image of technological renewal and national resilience despite decades of economic sanctions.
The presence of elite aviation units reinforced the narrative that North Korea’s most advanced forces are now receiving priority treatment. The demonstration flight witnessed by Kim from the observation platform was not merely a show of skill; it was a psychological display of readiness directed at both domestic viewers and foreign intelligence agencies.
Ju-ae’s Reappearance and the Dynastic Message
One of the most politically significant aspects of the ceremony was the appearance of Kim’s daughter, Ju-ae. This marked her first public appearance since her reported trip to China earlier this year. Her presence at such a strategically sensitive military event is widely interpreted as part of a gradual grooming process for a future leadership role.
