North Korean leader Kim Jong-un traveled to China by train to attend a military parade celebrating Japan's surrender in WWII. His armored train, described as a moving fortress, took about 20 hours to reach Beijing. This method, used for decades by North Korean leaders, offers security and comfort. Kim's trip marks his first major multilateral event in 14 years, bringing together him, Xi Jinping, and Vladimir Putin—all key US challengers. Though relations with China have been strained, Kim aims to improve ties given China's importance as North Korea's biggest trading partner.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.