Kim Jong Un, Putin pledge stronger North Korea ties

On Korean Liberation Day, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un expressed the strengthening of ties with Russia following President Vladimir Putin's congratulatory message on Saturday. This marked the 81st anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War Two. The Russian president asserted the partnership originated from Soviet soldiers fighting against Japan and emphasized its continuation in all sectors.

Kim expressed hope for the future of the relationship, which has bolstered the history of common struggle for justice and precious traditions of friendship. Notably, Pyongyang and Moscow have grown closer since North Korea began supporting Russia's war against Ukraine, making this their most significant involvement in a conflict since the 1950s.

The Russian ship Pallada made a goodwill visit to Wonsan port on Saturday, welcomed by North Korean provincial officials and Russian embassy staff. Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung urged talks with North Korea aimed at peaceful coexistence, calling for safeguards to prevent conflict and the replacement of their ceasefire with a peace regime.

Lee also suggested exploring ways to curb North Korea's nuclear program during these discussions. However, Pyongyang has rejected Lee's overtures and criticized US-South Korean military exercises as provocations. On Thursday, Putin faced Tokyo's condemnation for a visit to an island off Hokkaido, claimed by Japan, which Moscow seized following Japan's 1945 surrender.