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Роль дипломатии на высшем уровне в отношениях РФ и КНДР (1991–2024 гг.)The English version of the site is under reconstruction. Английская верcия сайта находится на реконструкции.

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Relations between Russia and North Korea: diplomacy at the highest level (1991–2024)

Identificator
EDN: OEXBLF ; УДК: 327(470+519.3)"1991/2024"
Authors
Komelev Anton Igorevich, postgraduate student of the faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia n. a. Patrice Lumumba. Russia, Moscow. E -mail: komelev1997@mail.ru
Journal
HERALD OF HUMANITARIAN EDUCATION №4 (40), 2025
Section
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONSHIP
Pages
85-95
Abstract
This article identifies the key stages and mechanisms of high-level diplomacy in Russia-North Korea relations in 1991 to 2024, with a focus on informal practices. Its relevance of the topic lies in the lack of comprehensive studies analyzing the role of symbolic gestures and personal ties between leaders under the constraints of international sanctions. The problem of the research lies in the insufficient scholarly attention paid to high -level diplomacy as a key tool in shaping and sustaining Russian-North Korean relations over the period from 1991 to 2024. The research is based on a comprehensive methodological approach that combines historical and political analysis, elements of the comparative method and content analysis of official statements, agreements and visits involving country's top leadership. The source database includes materials from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, official reports from news agencies, as well as analytical publications by Russian and foreign experts. The research concludes that high -level diplomacy is a key instrument in the development of bilateral relations between the two countries. The analysis shows that leaders' visits, negotiations and signed agreements contributed to the strengthening of political dialogue, particularly during periods of international sanctions. The key findings of the research highlight a non -linear relationship between the level of formalization in bilateral relations and their practical effectiveness. The peak level of effectiveness is 82 % of initiatives implemented – was recorded between 2000 and 2010, a period characterized by a combination of legal and informal mechanisms. The research also identified the phenomenon of "crisis consolidation" during periods of intensified sanctions pressure in 2014, 2017 and 2022, the frequency of personal high-level contacts increased by 40 % compared to more stable periods. Additionally, to the above mentioned the research confirmed the stratification of diplomatic channels: the upper level (leaders) addresses strategic issues; the middle level (foreign ministries) is responsible for technical coordination; and informal channels (ambassadors, special envoys) are engaged in managing sensitive topics.
Keywords
DPRK Russian Federation bilateral relations nuclear issues denuclearization sanctions of UN Security Council cooperation support
Recieved
04.03.2025
Published
19.02.2026

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