North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended New Year celebrations in Pyongyang, which featured fireworks, patriotic songs and dances, and a taekwondo performance, according to state media KCNA on Thursday. Kim’s daughter, Ju Ae—whom some analysts see as a potential successor—was present with him, interacting with children, sitting beside him, and holding his hand, KCNA photos showed.

In his speech, Kim praised the North Korean people for their contributions to the “successes and phenomenal changes” of 2025, and emphasized the importance of unity ahead of a key party congress expected in early 2026, which will set the country’s future direction. The 9th Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea is anticipated soon and is expected to outline North Korea’s plans for the next five years in areas including nuclear and weapons development and the economy.

Kim also sent a New Year message to North Korean troops fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine, calling them the “greatest strength and pride and a strong pillar” of the nation, and expressing hope for their eventual return. “Be brave. Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow,” he said, according to KCNA. Additionally, KCNA reported that Kim received New Year cards from several heads of state, including the Chinese president and his wife, though it did not mention Xi Jinping by name or provide further details.