Archive · 16 Aug 2026
Kim tells Putin: 'more excellent future' ahead in Russia ties
Kim Jong-un leads North Korea, and Vladimir Putin leads Russia.
Kim sent Putin a letter saying he expects an even better future for their countries' friendship.
The letter was a reply to a congratulations message Putin had sent.
Putin's message marked the day Korea became free from Japan's rule, 81 years ago.
North Korea and Russia have become close friends lately.
In 2024 they signed a big agreement to work together, and North Korea has been helping Russia in its war against Ukraine.
Kim also visited a memorial honoring Soviet soldiers who fought in World War II.
He left a wreath there that said the soldiers' brave deeds will never be forgotten.
Kim said the friendship between the two countries should continue for many generations.
Kim Jong-un told Vladimir Putin he expects a "more excellent future" in North Korea-Russia ties, according to state media KCNA.
The message responded to Putin's congratulations on the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule.
Kim expressed firm belief that Russia would accomplish the "sacred cause" of defending its sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity.
The two countries have forged closer ties since signing a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024.
Kim made his third Liberation Day visit to a Soviet troops memorial, laying a wreath reading "We will not forget the feats of the martyrs of the Soviet Army."
- Who
- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- What
- Kim sent a message to Putin expecting a "more excellent future" in bilateral ties and reaffirming the two countries' friendship and unity.
- When
- The message was dated Saturday and reported by state media on Sunday; Kim's memorial visit took place on Friday.
- Where
- North Korea, via the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), which reported the exchange.
- Why
- In response to Putin's congratulatory message on the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan's colonial rule, amid closer ties since the 2024 comprehensive strategic partnership.
- Subject
- Kim Jong-un's message to Vladimir Putin on DPRK-Russia relations
- Occasion
- 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule
- Reporter
- Korean Central News Agency (KCNA)
- Message date
- Dated Saturday; reported Sunday
- 2024 agreement
- Comprehensive strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia
- Context
- North Korea's military support for Russia in its war against Ukraine
- Memorial visit
- Third visit to the Soviet troops memorial; wreath: "We will not forget the feats of the martyrs of the Soviet Army."