Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presented Russian President Vladimir Putin with a pair of Pungsan dogs as a gesture of goodwill during Putin’s recent visit to the country. The Pungsan breed is native to northern North Korea and known for its hunting capabilities, as reported by state media KCNA.
During a televised segment on Korean Central Television, Putin and Kim were shown observing the dogs, which were tethered near a rose-covered fence. The leaders were also pictured interacting with a horse, with Putin patting its head and Kim feeding it carrots, according to Reuters.
The visit also featured a ride in a Russian-made Aurus limousine, showcasing the diplomatic exchange that included the limousine itself, a tea set, and artworks.
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This isn’t the first time Kim Jong Un has gifted Pungsan dogs to a world leader. Former South Korean president Moon Jae-in received a pair named ‘Gomi’ and ‘Songgang’ in 2019, according to reports.
During Putin’s visit, North Korea and Russia signed a comprehensive mutual defense pact, officially termed the ‘Treaty on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’. North Korean state media released the full text of this pact, emphasizing closer ties between the two nations, as reported by Reuters.
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The visit comes amid ongoing global geopolitical dynamics, with accusations from the United States and South Korea regarding North Korea’s alleged military support to Russia amidst the conflict with Ukraine. North Korea has consistently denied these allegations.
Kim Jong Un had extended the invitation for Putin to visit North Korea during his own trip to Russia’s Far East last September. Putin’s visit this week marks his first to North Korea in nearly 24 years, underscoring diplomatic efforts between the two countries.
