Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov awarded North Korean soldiers the Order of Courage in recognition of their participation in military operations within Russia’s Kursk region. The ceremony took place during Belousov’s high-profile visit to Pyongyang on Sunday, where he commended the troops for their efforts in repelling Ukrainian forces during last year’s border incursion.
This event signifies a notable strengthening of the military alliance between Russia and North Korea, which is anchored by the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty signed in June 2024. Belousov described the occasion as a “truly special day” in the history of Russian-Korean military cooperation.
Speaking at the ceremony in North Korea’s capital, Belousov praised the soldiers as “true heroes of our time” and the “elite” of Pyongyang’s armed forces. He expressed his personal gratitude on behalf of the Russian people for their frontline support. The North Korean troops were actively engaged in combat operations aimed at reclaiming territory in the Kursk region and carried out extensive mine-clearing missions.
The Order of Courage, a distinguished state decoration established in 1994, was conferred on the soldiers for their selfless acts of bravery during the campaign. This recognition highlights the valor and dedication demonstrated by the North Korean personnel in the conflict.
In a significant development, the visit also underscored a shift in the geopolitical landscape, with Belousov noting that bilateral relations have reached an “unprecedentedly high level.” The military collaboration coincides with reports that North Korea is advancing its arsenal, including testing new electromagnetic and “blackout” bombs designed to disrupt electronic infrastructure.
As Moscow and Pyongyang continue to enhance their exchange of military hardware and personnel, the Kremlin anticipates more frequent high-level engagements throughout 2026. This deepening alliance remains under close scrutiny by Western observers, as the 2024 treaty formalized a mutual defense pact that has now been practically applied on the battlefield for the first time.
