About the Author
Colin Zwirko
Colin Zwirko is a Senior Analytic Correspondent for NK News based in Seoul. Follow him on Twitter @ColinZwirko.
Correction on July 18: A previous version of this article included images which were said to show mass games practices in Pyongyang, when it appears the pictured practices were likely for a torch parade set to take place surrounding the same holiday. The article has been amended to reflect this fact.
North Korea is set to begin holding a new "mass games" event for the first time in five years on September 9, a Beijing-based tour company confirmed on Monday.