On March 27, 2025, Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, was awarded the jubilee medal "80 years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" by decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The ceremony took place at the Mansudae Palace in Pyongyang, where the medal was presented by Alexander Matsegora, the Russian Ambassador to North Korea, to Kan Yun Sok, the Deputy Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK.
The award recognizes Kim Jong Un's significant contribution to preserving the memory of Soviet citizens who died and were buried in North Korea. According to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang, this honor is seen as a testament to the high level of comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea.
During the ceremony, Kan Yun Sok expressed gratitude on behalf of Kim Jong Un for the honorary medal, which symbolizes the cooperation and partnership between the two nations. "This award is a new confirmation of the high level of comprehensive strategic partnership between our allied states," Kan stated, highlighting the importance of the relationship between Russia and North Korea.
Earlier on the same day, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko announced that preparations are underway for Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia later in 2025. Meanwhile, discussions are also in progress for a visit from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to North Korea. This upcoming dialogue aims to strengthen the strategic ties between the two countries.
Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov noted that the Kremlin is not yet ready to announce specific details regarding Kim Jong Un's visit or his potential participation in the Victory Parade in Moscow on May 9. However, he confirmed that the North Korean leader has received an official invitation to visit Russia, and the dates for this visit will be arranged through diplomatic channels.
The awarding of the medal is part of a broader context of increasing cooperation between Russia and North Korea, particularly in light of geopolitical shifts in the region. As both nations navigate their respective international challenges, their partnership appears to be strengthening, with symbolic gestures like this medal serving to reinforce their alliance.
As the world watches, the relationship between these two nations will be closely scrutinized, especially given the historical significance of the medal presented to Kim Jong Un. The Great Patriotic War, known in the West as World War II, holds a profound place in Russian history, and honoring a foreign leader in this context underscores the importance of shared historical narratives and mutual respect.
In conclusion, the awarding of the jubilee medal to Kim Jong Un not only highlights his contributions to commemorating Soviet sacrifices but also signifies the ongoing strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia. As both countries prepare for upcoming diplomatic engagements, the international community will be keenly observing how this relationship evolves in the coming months.
