President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK – North Korea) on June 18-19, 2024, marks a significant development in the geopolitical landscape of East Asia. This visit, the first by a Russian leader in nearly two decades, underscores the evolving dynamics in the region amidst heightened tensions and shifting alliances. This issue brief will delve into the key aspects of the visit, its strategic implications, and the broader context of Russia-North Korea relations.
Historically, Russia and North Korea have shared a complex relationship, shaped by ideological ties, strategic interests, and mutual dependencies.[1] The Soviet Union was a key ally of North Korea during the Cold War, providing economic and military support. However, the dissolution of the Soviet Union and subsequent economic turmoil in Russia led to a cooling of relations. In recent years, as both countries faced increasing international isolation—Russia due to its actions in Ukraine and North Korea due to its nuclear ambitions—their strategic interests have aligned once again.
