N. Korean leader pays tribute to Soviet soldiers amid deepening Russia ties

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un honored Soviet soldiers who fought against Japan during World War II to commemorate Korea's liberation from Japanese colonial rule, according to state media. He vowed to further bolster relations with Russia, Pyongyang's official news agency reported on Saturday. On Friday, Kim paid a visit to the Liberation Tower in Pyongyang, one day before the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule, the KCNA said.

The North Korean leader laid a wreath bearing the inscription, "We will not forget the feats of the martyrs of the Soviet Army." Kim emphasized that the historical, cultural, and blood ties between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Russia form the foundation and driving force behind their bilateral friendship and cooperation.

He expressed his hope that this "great friendship and unity" would endure across generations. Kim's third visit to the Liberation Tower for Liberation Day marked this occasion.