Kim Jong Un’s Beijing Visit Signals Cautious Re-Engagement with China,North Korean Media Analysis Reveals
Beijing,October 5,2025 – A recent summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping,ostensibly focused on “high-level visits and strategic interaction” and “strengthening strategic cooperation,” appears to represent a cautious step forward in the strained relationship between the two nations,according to a detailed analysis of North Korean state media coverage. While the summit was presented positively,the language used in North Korean reports suggests a lack of complete alignment on key issues,a departure from the more effusive tone of past meetings.
The summit report notably included Kim’s stated “support” for China’s “sovereignty, territorial integrity…,” a clear, though veiled, reference to Taiwan, marking a break from precedent. However, analysts observing North Korean media coverage note a significant difference in phrasing compared to previous Xi-Kim summits.
Past reports following meetings between the two leaders frequently employed language indicating strong agreement, such as ”[achieved] a shared understanding,” “unanimously agreed,” and “reached a consensus.” Kim Jong Un was also previously reported to “highly appreciate” or be “much pleased” with the exchange and cooperation. This latest report, though, only described the leaders having an “exchange of views,” “informing each other of,” or “referring to” issues of mutual interest – lacking any explicit indication of agreement.
This more reserved tone echoes the coverage of Kim’s first summit with Xi in March 2018, which occurred after a period of strained relations. Subsequent summits saw increasingly positive language in North korean media,suggesting a gradual warming of ties. The current shift back towards more neutral phrasing indicates the relationship has not fully recovered.
Looking ahead, the analysis suggests Kim Jong Un may approach the upcoming Ninth Party Congress with increased confidence. The congress will be a key venue for outlining North Korea’s next five-year domestic and foreign policy plans. Observers are also watching for developments in “long-term plans” discussed between North Korea and Russia, the future trajectory of North korea-China relations, and potential efforts by Pyongyang to improve ties with other nations present at china’s recent Victory Day celebrations, including a reported invitation extended by Kim to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to visit Pyongyang.
Kim’s intentions towards China will likely be further illuminated by any letter he sends to Xi jinping on October 1, commemorating China’s founding day. In the interim, increased North Korean propaganda emphasizing Kim’s diplomatic achievements in Beijing is anticipated.
