North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed strong support for the alliance with Russia, calling it the “most sincere alliance” in a New Year message directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin. This communication, reported by the Korean Central News Agency, emphasizes the commitment to enhancing bilateral ties as the two nations navigate their geopolitical landscape.
In the message, sent on December 27, 2024, Kim referred to Putin as “my dear comrade” and highlighted the historical significance of their countries’ relationship. He stated that the bond has been forged through shared experiences and sacrifices, describing it as “the most sincere alliance, forged by sharing blood in the trenches and experiencing life and death together.”
Kim noted that as the year 2025 approaches, the relationship between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Russia has become increasingly robust. He remarked, “With the passing days of 2025, DPRK-Russia relations have been further solidified,” adding that their cooperation was “vividly engraved on the pages of the era and history.”
This message comes in the context of North Korea’s military support for Russia, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Analysts interpret Kim’s remarks as a reaffirmation of North Korea’s commitment to aid Russia, a stance that he believes has significantly deepened the partnership. He asserted that “no one can break the relationship between the peoples of our two countries, nor the solidarity of our peoples,” indicating a strong resolve to maintain their alliance.
2025 is framed by Kim as a pivotal year for the two nations. He characterized it as “a truly meaningful year” where they would advance their alliance through “mutual and complete support and selfless solidarity.” Kim described their relationship as “a precious shared asset” that must be preserved for future generations.
This message was released following a New Year greeting from Putin, who acknowledged North Korea’s troop deployment to the Kursk region. Putin expressed confidence in the continued constructive cooperation between the two countries on various regional and international matters.
Since the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement in June 2024, North Korea and Russia have enhanced cooperation across multiple fields. Last year, North Korea demonstrated its commitment to the alliance by supporting Moscow’s military initiatives in the Kursk region.
Kim’s New Year message was prominently featured on the front page of Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the ruling Workers’ Party. Unlike previous years, in which North Korea released the complete text of New Year letters exchanged between Kim and Putin, this year’s coverage emphasized the solidarity between the two nations, while a brief mention was made of a New Year card from Chinese President Xi Jinping alongside greetings from other leaders.
As North Korea continues to align itself with Russia amid changing global dynamics, Kim’s message underscores a commitment to a partnership that both leaders view as vital for their respective countries’ strategic interests.
