Russia and North Korea strengthen their military alliance: From symbolism to heavy weapons aid.
Relations between Moscow and Pyongyang have undergone a dramatic transformation, supported by everything from artillery shells and 170mm self-propelled guns to thousands of technical personnel participating in defense projects in Russia.
The defense cooperation between the Russian Federation and North Korea is entering a more in-depth phase, shifting from diplomatic commitments to substantive support on the battlefield and in the defense industry. This alliance is not merely symbolic but is also manifested in the large-scale sharing of weapons and technical personnel.
A monument symbolizing the military alliance was unveiled.
Near the main church of the Russian Armed Forces, Defense Minister Andrey Belousov and his North Korean counterpart, General No Kwang Chol, unveiled the "Allies. Korean Soldiers" statue complex. This monument was erected to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Pacific War.
This artwork depicts Korean guerrilla fighters coordinating with the Red Army in the campaign against the Japanese fascists. According to Minister Belousov, this is a tribute to the generation that fought for freedom and a testament to the unbreakable friendship between the two nations.
The presence of North Korean soldiers on the battlefield.
Information regarding the direct involvement of North Korean soldiers in supporting Russia in the Kursk region has been confirmed by Russian officials. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov affirmed that North Korean soldiers coordinated with the Russian military in territorial defense operations. Lavrov revealed that a separate monument dedicated to the North Korean soldiers who died in Kursk will soon be erected.
This presence is based on the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between Moscow and Pyongyang. Russia asserts that North Korea has the full right to determine how to implement its defense support commitments under international law and bilateral agreements.
The impact of North Korea's defense industry on Russia.
North Korea's defense industry plays a crucial role in maintaining Russia's combat capabilities. As of the second quarter of 2025, reports indicate that nearly 50% of the artillery shells used by the Russian military originate from North Korea. Notably, some Russian artillery units are now entirely dependent on this supply.
In addition to ammunition, North Korea's heavy weaponry has also appeared on the ground:
- 170mm self-propelled artillery:This type of weapon has a long range and accuracy far superior to many comparable Western systems, putting significant pressure on the enemy.
- Tactical ballistic missiles:A large-scale production plant was recently inaugurated in Pyongyang in September 2025 to increase export production for Russia.
- Chonma-2 tank:Military sources indicate that North Korea plans to supply these main battle tanks to help Russia compensate for armored vehicle losses.
Comprehensive human resources and technical cooperation
The partnership has expanded to include technical personnel. At the Alabuga plant, where the Geran-2 UAV is manufactured, approximately 25,000 North Korean workers are currently involved in the assembly and testing lines. In addition, Pyongyang has pledged to send 1,000 demining experts and 5,000 military engineers to assist Russia in rebuilding infrastructure in conflict zones.
This comprehensive military-civilian cooperation demonstrates North Korea's long-term commitment to supporting Russia. Chairman Kim Jong Un affirmed this as a "fraternal duty," while President Vladimir Putin assessed that the relationship between the two countries has reached a particularly high level of trust.
