Russia and North Korea do share a border, to the surprise of many. But the picture is far from complete. The 2 countries are rather close in many aspects, but their connection goes much deeper. There are both historical and political implications that have to be taken into account when trying to understand the complex relationship between Russia and North Korea.
This relationship began with the USSR’s presence in the Russian Far East, just to the right of the Korean peninsula. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, and in 1993, the bilateral treaty was signed by both countries. With this, the border between Russia and North Korea was established. It is estimated to be around 17 kilometres long and made up of a few cities, towns, and villages.
The significance of this relationship grew even more during the height of the Cold War, especially when Russia became the protector of North Korea’s Kim Il-sung dynasty. It is through the strong bond between these two countries that North Korea’s political stability and security has been maintained. The relationship is so strong, that it played a crucial role in Kim Jong Un’s ascension to power after the death of his father.
The internal affairs in North Korea are of great interest to Russia, with Russian-born citizens making up almost a quarter of North Korean citizens, mostly in the border areas. North Koreans and Russians also share the Korean language and its many dialects, further strengthening the connection.
This relationship is of strategic importance to both countries. For example, in 2014, Russia and North Korea concluded an agreement to increase mutual trade between the two countries. This agreement gave North Korea much needed access to the outside world, while allowing Russia to make up for a shortfall in its energy resources.
Additionally, in 2019, the two countries signed an agreement for the construction of a railway project between the two countries, as well as for the promotion of employment, trade, and other forms of economic cooperation. This agreement would further strengthen the connection between the two countries.
Russian Involvement in North Korean Arms Programs
Russia has displayed its commitment to North Korean security by backing Pyongyang’s military programs. It was reported that Moscow agreed to provide assistance to North Korea in the development of the Pyongyang’s weapons industry. This assistance has come in the form of providing technical assistance and financial support, as well as allowing North Korea to purchase Russian-made military equipment.
This has caused some international observers to be alarmed, since North Korea has been sanctioned by the United Nations since 2006 as punishment for its nuclear and missile programs. But Russia argues that its support is only intended to help the North Korean people, not to arm its government. In any case, it is clear that the two countries are close, with Russia standing wholly behind North Korea.
However, the two countries have not been completely in sync over the years, especially when it comes to North Korea’s policy towards the United States. Russia has urged North Korea to work towards a peaceful resolution to any differences, while also reaffirming its commitment to preserving North Korea’s sovereignty.
On the other hand, Russia has shown an open-minded approach towards North Korea over the years, and has been a vocal supporter of the inter-Korean talks. As a result, the two countries have been able to cooperate to the mutual benefit of both sides.
Putin’s Meeting with Kim Jong Un
In 2019, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Vladivostok during a summit meeting. This was the first time that a Russian leader had met with a North Korean leader in eight years. Putin’s trip to North Korea was a sign of the close ties between the two countries, and of the warm relationship between the two leaders.
At the summit, the two leaders discussed a range of issues, including economic cooperation, North Korean denuclearization, and the ongoing tensions in the Korean Peninsula. Putin also expressed his support for the ongoing peace process, and vowed to work with North Korea to resolve any outstanding issues.
The meeting was further evidence of the growing closeness between Russia and North Korea. It is clear that their common goals, shared interests, and strong relationship will only continue to strengthen in the future.
Economic Benefits
The close relationship between Russia and North Korea has proven to be beneficial for both countries. North Korea has been able to secure access to needed resources and capital, while Russia has been able to take advantage of new investment opportunities. As a result, both countries have seen an influx of foreign direct investment in the years since the relationship began.
The increasing economic ties between the two countries has been a major contributing factor to the success of the bilateral relationship, as it has allowed both countries to gain access to needed resources and capital. As a result, North Korea has seen an influx of foreign direct investment, while Russia has seen increased investment opportunities.
The economic development of these two countries is closely linked, as investment and trade have been a major part of the relationship. For example, in 2016, North Korea and Russia signed an agreement allowing mutual economic cooperation between the two countries. This agreement allowed businesses from both countries to invest in each other’s economies without the need for visas.
Furthermore, in the recent years, North Korea has increasingly opened its doors to foreign investment. This has resulted in increased foreign direct investment into North Korea, which has been a boon for the country’s economy.
Cultural Exchange
The close relationship between Russia and North Korea has also resulted in an increased cultural exchange. This cultural exchange has been beneficial for both countries as it has allowed them to learn from each other, as well as to develop a better understanding of each other’s cultures.
For example, North Korean students have studied in Russian universities, and North Korean businesses have sought partners in Russia. This has been beneficial for North Korean citizens, as it has allowed them to gain access to vital knowledge and expertise that would have otherwise been out of reach. Furthermore, North Korean citizens have been able to travel to Russia, allowing them to gain a better understanding of Russian culture.
This cultural exchange has also allowed the development of closer ties between the two countries. This is evident in the increased number of bilateral agreements that have been made in recent years, as well as the increased level of exchange between the two countries.
Political Significance
The relationship between Russia and North Korea is also of significant political importance. It is one of the few countries that have managed to remain a close ally of North Korea despite international pressure and economic sanctions. As a result, North Korea has been able to maintain its sovereignty.
Furthermore, Russia’s support has been instrumental in helping North Korea maintain its independence, as well as in helping to preserve its political stability. Moreover, Russia has also been able to play a major role in international efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula. This has been beneficial for both countries, as it has helped them to maintain a peaceful and cooperative relationship.
Additionally, the cooperation between Russia and North Korea has also been beneficial for both countries in terms of security. As a result, both countries have been able to improve their relationship, which has thus been beneficial for both sides.
Implications for the Future
The close relationship between Russia and North Korea has been beneficial for both countries. It has allowed North Korea to maintain its sovereignty, as well as to gain access to resources and capital. Furthermore, the two countries have been able to work together to resolve international issues, and to promote peace in the region.
The cooperation between Russia and North Korea has also had implications for the international community. As a result, the United Nations has been able to work more closely with North Korea and to help promote peace and stability in the region.
It is clear that the relationship between Russia and North Korea is far closer than many initially believed it was. The two countries are closely bound together by history, economic and political ties, as well as cultural understanding. This close relationship is likely to continue in the future, and will remain an important factor in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
