North Korea Mandates Russian Language in Schools, Strengthens Ties

North Korea has made the study of Russian a mandatory subject for students beginning in the fourth grade. This initiative aims to strengthen educational ties between North Korea and Russia, reflecting a growing collaboration in various sectors. According to Alexander Kozlov, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and co-chair of the intergovernmental commission between the two nations, approximately 600 individuals in North Korea are currently studying Russian, placing it among the top three most popular languages in the country.

In Russia, the interest in the Korean language is also evident, with 3,000 schoolchildren and 300 university students engaged in Korean studies. During a recent commission meeting in Moscow, Kozlov highlighted that last year, 96 North Korean citizens gained admission to Russian universities, including the prestigious MGIMO University, known for training diplomats. Additionally, 29 students enrolled in geology courses in Russia this year, indicating a growing academic exchange.

Strengthening Educational Links

Kozlov emphasized that North Korea and Russia are cooperating in various educational sectors, including banking, energy, medicine, and geology. A significant development in this partnership is Russia’s plan to establish a center in North Korea that will provide Russian-language education at Kim Chol Ju Normal University. This initiative will enhance access to the Russian language for North Korean students and facilitate deeper cultural exchanges.

The longstanding ties between North Korea and Russia have been further solidified since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. North Korea has reportedly supplied weapons to Russia and has sent troops to assist in the conflict, including efforts to clear mines in the Kursk region, a territory briefly occupied by Ukraine.

Emerging Cyber Connections

The collaboration extends into the cyber realm, where two of the world’s most notorious state-linked cybercrime groups—Russia’s Gamaredon and North Korea’s Lazarus collective—have been observed sharing resources. This partnership highlights the multifaceted nature of the relationship between the two countries, which continues to evolve in response to geopolitical shifts.

Looking ahead, in August 2025, Russian tourists are expected to visit North Korean resorts as Russian airlines plan to launch direct flights to Pyongyang. This development is likely to increase interactions between the populations of both nations, further reinforcing their ties.

The introduction of Russian language instruction in North Korean schools is a clear indicator of the strengthening bonds between North Korea and Russia. As both countries navigate a complex international landscape, their collaboration in education and other sectors may have significant implications for regional geopolitics.