Kim Jong-un’s troops seen gathering for massive military parade despite coronavirus [photos]

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Masses of North Korean soldiers have been spotted practicing for a major military showcase - despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Satellite images released by a US think tank show formations of troops and vehicles at the Mirim Parade Training Ground in the capital Pyongyang.

"North Korea has been widely expected to hold a major military parade on October 10 this year," the worrying 38 North report said.

"These images provide the first evidence that rehearsals are underway."

The news comes even though it's been reported Kim Jong-un's kingdom is secretly in the grip of a Covid-19 outbreak.

The true extent to which the virus has spread within the state is not known, but it has closed its borders and implemented strict lockdown measures.

It was even reported that troops have been ordered to shoot anyone seen straying near the border with China.

The terrifying order apparently came after dictator Kim claimed North Korea is free of the killer virus and insisted he wasn’t worried.

And it appears Kim is not going to cancel his country's annual display of military might - even thought it regularly attracts huge crowds to the capital.

The Mirim facility is often used by troops practicing the demanding marching style featured in North Korea's extravagant parades.

The huge displays - which also feature tanks, missiles and armoured trucks - usually take place in Pyongyang's Kim Il-sung Square.

They are held in front of powerful state dignitaries including 'Glorious Leader' Kim himself.

The parades are timed to mark the anniversary of the formation of the Workers’ Party of Korea which is a huge public holiday.

However, preparations for the event appear to have been delayed possibly due to anti-pandemic measures or recent severe weather, 38 North said.