North Korea Mandates Russian Language in Schools Amid Growing Ties

North Korea has officially introduced Russian as a required foreign language in its elementary schools, marking a significant step in the strengthening of ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. According to Alexander Kozlov, Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, this initiative will see Russian taught as a compulsory subject starting from the fourth grade. The announcement was reported by Interfax, where Kozlov stated that Russian is one of the most popular foreign languages in North Korea, currently studied by approximately 600 students.

The timeline for when these mandatory Russian language lessons will commence remains unclear. During a recent meeting of the intergovernmental commission in Moscow, Kozlov also highlighted that over 3,000 Russian children are currently learning Korean, often as a second or third foreign language. This exchange of language education reflects a broader trend of collaboration between the two nations, which have increasingly aligned themselves in response to external pressures from the West.

Deepening Cooperation Between North Korea and Russia

The relationship between North Korea and Russia has intensified notably since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Both countries are grappling with growing isolation on the international stage, prompting them to enhance cooperation across various sectors. Kozlov noted that the partnership extends beyond language education, with initiatives in place to train professionals in fields such as banking, engineering, and geology.

The military aspect of this alliance has also been significant. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly deployed over 12,000 troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine. In August 2023, South Korean intelligence indicated that North Korea was preparing to send an additional 30,000 troops to aid Russia’s military efforts. Furthermore, estimates suggest that North Korea is supplying nearly half of Russia’s ammunition needs.

The strengthening of ties culminated in a mutual defense pact signed last year during Vladimir Putin‘s visit to North Korea, marking what many analysts consider the most substantial connection between the two nations since the Cold War era. This alliance represents a significant shift in geopolitical dynamics in the region, as both leaders pursue shared objectives amid increasing isolation from Western nations.

As North Korea mandates the teaching of Russian, it is evident that the partnership with Russia is set to deepen further, impacting both countries’ educational systems and broader international relations.