(Source: CGTN)

Amid the mounting tensions, a military parade in Pyongyang put the DPRK's advanced weapons on display for all the world to see. DPRK leader Kim Jong Un watched the parade, held to celebrate the birthday of his late grandfather and DPRK founder Kim Il Sung on Saturday. China has warned that all parties involved should exercise constraint.

DPRK put its adversaries on notice Saturday, when Pyongyang showed off a range of new missiles and launchers at its annual military parade.

Among the hardware on display appeared to be new intercontinental and submarine-launched ballistic missiles.

The show of strength comes as tensions on the Korean Peninsula have spiked to alarming levels, with a US aircraft carrier group steaming towards the region.

More than 4 million people in China watched the parade through live streaming platforms. Some viewers thought the parade looked ridiculous: "The way DPRK soldiers march, with a little jump, looks pretty funny". Others commented, "I don't find it funny, I think it is a fine display." Many also expressed concerns over the brinksmanship in the region: "I hope the Korean Peninsula will not descend into turmoil, which would not be in the interests of all of its neighbouring countries. The thought of it becoming another Syria is horrific."

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault on Friday. Afterward, he said if war breaks out, all parties will end up as losers, and there will be no winners.

"We call on all parties to refrain from provoking and threatening each other, whether in words or actions, and not let the situation get to an irreversible and unmanageable stage," he said.

"Meanwhile, we remain open to any positive suggestions from all sides. The format of the meeting can be flexible. China is willing to support talks in all forms."

Despite the displays, analysts caution against overreacting, noting that the DPRK's missile tests have had a chequered record of success... and just because the missiles are in a parade doesn't necessarily mean they're operational.