Pyongyang: Russian students from the Kursk region have shown their appreciation to North Korean soldiers by sending paper boats to honor those who fought alongside Russia in the conflict against Ukraine and to mourn their deaths. This gesture, reported by the North's state media, highlights the growing camaraderie between the two nations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, students from a school linked with the Russian Embassy in North Korea launched paper lantern boats on the Daedong River. The boats carried messages that paid tribute to the soldiers' bravery and expressed hopes for their "eternal life." The messages, written in both Korean and Russian, included sentiments like "Thank you," "We will prevail," and "Friendship forever."

The event was attended by Russian Ambassador to North Korea Alexandr Matsegora and other embassy officials, underscoring the diplomatic ties between the countries. This initiative comes after North Korea deployed 15,000 troops to aid Russia in its war efforts in Ukraine, playing a pivotal role in reclaiming territory in Kursk as of April.

South Korean intelligence authorities estimate that around 2,000 North Korean troops have perished in the conflict. This military collaboration has further solidified the relationship between Russia and North Korea, with reports suggesting that Russia is reciprocating with economic and other forms of support, benefiting the resource-limited North Korea.