The research about north-korea's strategic curture and restoration of the North-Russia alliance

Why did North Korea and Russia sign the North Korea-Russia New Treaty and restore their military alliance? This paper examines the restoration of the North Korea-Russia alliance from a strategic cultural perspective, rather than a conventional international political viewpoint. Especially, the study approaches the issue through the geographical and geopolitical conditions of North Korea and the lens of North Korea’s 'inherited strategic culture,' formed through the early historical experiences of the North Korean system. The study reveals several key findings: First, North Korea’s emphasis on the “doctrine of two hostile countries” is linked to its intention to reinforce its legitimacy and identity. This doctrine, while maintaining hostile relations with the South, has given North Korea the confidence to ensure its regime survival. Second, the restoration of the North-Russia alliance is a result of a shared perception of threat between the two countries. Based on this, North Korea actively participates in the restructuring of a multipolar international order, supporting Russia in the process. Third, through the restoration of the North-Russia alliance, Russia has reassessed North Korea’s geopolitical value and is providing essential psychological and material support to ensure the stability of North Korea’s regime. Finally, the restoration of the North-Russia alliance reflects trends toward continued strengthening of national defense, such as modernization of conventional forces, transfer of advanced military technologies, and augmentation of forces to compensate for North Korea’s inferior military strength compared to South Korea. Moreover, the confidence derived from strong backing from Russia and China may lead to reckless strategic and tactical military provocations. 2025 marks the final year of North Korea’s “Five-Year National Defense Development Plan.” From 2024, the restoration of the North-Russia alliance is expected to serve as a driving force for the realization of this plan, with active encouragement for defense development. Given the situation of the war in Ukraine in 2025, it is necessary to closely monitor military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, along with the trends in North Korea’s military strength, to assess their impact on South Korea and establish proactive preparedness strategies.