The parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party, highlighted Kim's growing diplomatic footing and his relentless drive to build an arsenal that could viably target the continental US and his rivals in Asia.
North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the parade featured a new, yet-to-be-tested intercontinental ballistic missile called the Hwasong-20, which it described as the "most powerful nuclear strategic weapons system".
The Hwasong-20 is the latest addition to Kim's growing list of intercontinental ballistic missiles, which can potentially reach the US mainland.
Ankit Panda of the US-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said the missile represents the high point of North Korea's ambitions for long-range nuclear delivery capabilities.
"We should expect to see the system tested before the end of this year," Panda said.
"The system is likely designed for the delivery of multiple warheads ... Multiple warheads will increase stresses on existing US missile defence systems and augment what Kim sees as necessary to achieve meaningful deterrence effects against Washington."
Chinese Premier Li Qiang, a delegation from Russia led by former president Dmitry Medvedev, as well as Vietnam's Communist Party chief To Lam were among the foreign dignitaries in Pyongyang for the anniversary.
Other weapons on display included shorter-range ballistic, cruise and supersonic missiles, which the North previously described as capable of delivering nuclear strikes against targets in rival South Korea.
In a speech at the Friday night parade, which followed celebrations on Thursday, Kim said his military "must continue to evolve into an invincible force that eliminates all threats", according to comments published by KCNA.
Kim also held talks on Friday with Medvedev, who said the sacrifice of North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia in Kursk proved the trusted relations between the two countries.
Kim told Medvedev he hopes to continue strengthening co-operation with Russia and to closely engage in diverse exchanges to achieve common goals, KCNA said.
With Reuters
