Soaring high - Kim Jong-un attends grand celebration of KPA Air Force's 80th founding anniversary in Wonsan *STILLS*

"The leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Kim Jong-un, attended a grand celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Air Force on Friday in Wonsan, according to state media. Images released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Sunday show Kim arriving at Kalma Airport and touring the facility with officials before watching an acrobatic display by fighter jets. He also gave a speech and attended an art performance as part of a follow-up event. Kim also visited the bust of renowned combat hero Kil Yong-jo ahead of his airbase visit, the KCNA reported. According to the agency, during his address, Kim praised the Air Force for its historic contributions and its future role in protecting Pyongyang's interests. He further announced that the force would receive 'new strategic military assets' to defend the country's airspace. He also granted the force the Order of Kim Jong-il, the country's most prestigious decoration, to honour its service. The KPA Air Force was formally recognised as a branch of the KPA in November 1948, after originating from the Korean Aviation Society in 1945. "