Based on an analysis of Planet Labs' commercial satellite images showing "formations of the hammer, sickle, and brush symbol" of the isolated country's Workers' Party, the website said on Tuesday that the activity at a training field near Mirim Airport, east of Pyongyang, appeared to be "preparatory drills" for the parade ahead of a key party congress expected to be held this month.
North Korean troops have conducted drills at the site when preparing military parades for major events, including the party gathering, which is held roughly once every five years to outline the country's five-year plan for domestic and foreign policies.
The North has not disclosed the exact date of the congress, but government authorities here predict that it is expected to convene within the coming weeks.
With its leader Kim Jong-un making frequent appearances at a series of events celebrating the completion of various projects as well as conducting on-site inspections to highlight his achievements since late last year, the congress appears imminent.
But 38 North said the scheduled gathering could be delayed "if there are more economic projects to showcase or weapons to test."
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