North Korean leader Kim Jong-un recently visited a tank unit noted for being the first to enter Seoul during the Korean War, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Mar. 25.
According to the state-run agency KCNA, Kim inspected the First Tank Armored Infantry Regiment, part of the 105th Tank Division of the Seoul Ryu Kyong Su Guards of the Korean People’s Army, on the preceding day.
KCNA commented on the unit, noting its distinction as the first to enter Seoul during the War of Fatherland Liberation (the June 25 War), raising the Republic’s flag at the Goryeo Central Office, and establishing a revolutionary martial spirit through numerous battles. This earned the unit the esteemed ‘guards’ and ‘Seoul’ titles.
Kim Jong-un emphasized the importance of upholding and enhancing the immortal achievements of the nation’s founders, Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, by perfecting war readiness and strengthening combat capabilities. He highlighted the unit’s role in exemplifying the heroism and bravery of the armed forces, urging it to set an example for the entire army.
Kim Jong-un inspected the Division’s First Tank Armored Infantry Regiment and oversaw training exercises focused on overcoming obstacles and executing high-speed breakthroughs. Kim said, “The 105th Tank Division, a unit that symbolizes the heroism and bravery of our armed forces, must set an example for the entire army and carry its banner high.”
KCNA said Kim Jong-un’s visit also included taking commemorative photos, watching performances by the Division’s artistic and propaganda corps, and inspecting the unit’s cafeteria and hospital facilities. He showed a keen interest in the soldiers’ living conditions.
KCNA released photos of Kim’s visit, including scenes from the unit’s cafeteria crowded with soldiers and tables laden with white rice, red-spiced soup, meat dishes, and what appeared to be boiled eggs. Notably, one of the tanks featured a plate with the inscription, “Annihilate the U.S. invaders who are the iron enemy of the Korean people!”
Kim likely visited the 105th Division to congratulate them on their victory in the Korean People’s Army’s Tandem Inter-Unit Training Competition on Mar. 13, which he directed.
Kim’s entourage included high-ranking officials such as Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the Workers Party’s central military commission; Defense Minister Kang Sun-nam; and Chief of the General Staff Ri Yong-gil.
