North Korea appears to be preparing for a large-scale parade in the run-up to the first congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea in five years.
North Korea’s state-run media have been reporting that preparations are underway for the congress.
NHK obtained satellite imagery taken by the US firm Planet Labs of Mirim Airfield outside the capital Pyongyang.
The airfield is known to be used for military parade rehearsals.
Images taken on Monday show what appear to be soldiers marching in formation and creating the shape of a hammer, sickle and calligraphy brush — the emblem of the ruling party.
The South Korean government sees the possibility of Pyongyang holding a military parade to showcase its weapons development.
Some observers say North Korea could present a new plan for weapons development after the country’s leader, Kim Jong Un, suggested a new initiative to strengthen nuclear war deterrence.
Hong Min, a researcher with the South Korean government-affiliated Korea Institute for National Unification, points out the likelihood of the North unveiling the development of diverse weaponry that can carry nuclear warheads, with attacks on US bases in Japan and nuclear-powered aircraft carriers in mind.
However, Hong adds that the North will likely refrain from provoking Washington and present a message or stance aimed at gaining recognition as a nuclear power.