On the first anniversary of signing its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty with Russia, North Korea praised its military involvement in the Russian campaign as a demonstration of genuine internationalist loyalty.
An article published on Thursday in the ruling Workers’ Party newspaper Rodong Sinmun conveyed that the North Korean military’s participation in the operation to liberate Russia’s Kursk region was regarded as the most exemplary implementation of the treaty. The article emphasized that the invincible power of the DPRK-Russia alliance would be demonstrated even more strongly.
The paper emphasized that the operation demonstrated the strength of both countries’ armed forces and the unshakable solidity of their alliance. It stated that North Korean soldiers, following the orders of their supreme leader, regarded Russian territory as their own and treated the Russian people as brothers, showing exceptional bravery and self-sacrifice in fierce combat situations.
The article further indicated that the joint operation leading to the full liberation of the Kursk region had solidified the Korea–Russia alliance as a strategic bulwark for defending justice and peace, reflecting the spirit of unity, cooperation, and internationalist solidarity.
Citing the treaty as a foundation for deepened bilateral ties, Rodong Sinmun claimed that the DPRK–Russia relationship now functions as a powerful security mechanism that helps ease regional tensions and ensures global strategic stability. The paper also framed the partnership as a driving force for building a fairer, multipolar international order and opening a bright future for humanity.
The article reiterated that the countries’ commitment to enhancing military solidarity and achieving mutual prosperity reflected the will of both peoples, formed in opposition to imperialist hegemony and threats, a defense of peace, stability, and national interests.
The treaty was described as a powerful legal framework capable of safeguarding bilateral relations despite any challenges. The newspaper also noted it as an unprecedented and historic event in the nearly 80-year history of DPRK–Russia relations, one that both peoples could regard with pride.
Beyond military cooperation, the article highlighted growing collaboration in other sectors over the past year. These included increased exchanges of high-level delegations, joint initiatives to expand intergovernmental trade and scientific cooperation, and enhanced ties in diplomacy, education, healthcare, and the arts. The paper also referenced the construction of a cross-border automobile bridge between the two countries in April as an example of expanding infrastructure cooperation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Pyongyang last June for a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during which they signed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. Article 4 of the agreement stipulates immediate mutual military assistance in the event of an armed invasion, effectively elevating the pact to a military alliance.