North Korea’s Kim Jong-un Sees FE FU as a Key Platform for Scientific Cooperation with Russia
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has expressed a clear expectation that the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) will contribute meaningfully to scientific and technological collaboration between North Korea and Russia. This outlook was reported by North Korea’s state broadcaster, Voice of Korea, reflecting the leadership’s emphasis on leveraging academic and research ties to advance bilateral interests.
The statements conveyed by the North Korean side quoted Kim Jong-un as hoping that FEFU will achieve further notable development and take on a significant role in the cooperative efforts spanning science and technology between the two neighboring states. The message underscores the strategic value placed on universities and research institutions as bridges for exchange, innovation, and mutual growth, particularly in areas aligned with national priorities and industrial development.
During Kim’s visit to the Far Eastern Federal University, he toured exhibition pavilions representing the Primorsky Territory and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation. He reportedly recognized the remarkable progress demonstrated by the Russian people in economy, science, and technical fields. The encounter also included a meeting with Korean students studying in the region, during which he encouraged them to study diligently and strive to contribute to the prosperity of North Korea through their academic and professional achievements.
Recent coverage notes that Kim Jong-un departed Russia aboard his armored train after concluding activities in the region. Prior to departure, he attended public performances at local venues, viewed the sea life exhibits at the Primorsky Aquarium, presented a gift to the Pacific Fleet, and attended a performance of the Sleeping Beauty ballet. He was also photographed wearing a distinctive hat featuring ear flaps, a detail noted by observers in the course of covering his itinerary. These portions of the visit have been described in coverage by the outlet Newspapers.Ru, which provides additional context on the public reception and ceremonial aspects of the trip.
In the broader sequence of events, a day prior to or around September 13, meetings took place at the Vostochny Cosmodrome between President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, with both leaders present and delegations from their respective sides participating. After sessions that reportedly lasted several hours, the leaders shared a meal featuring Kamchatka crab dumplings and exchanged toasts. Kim Jong-un later continued exploring Russian facilities and cultural sites, with Putin’s participation noted as part of the formal interactions surrounding the visit. The detailed summaries of these discussions and activities have been chronicled by Newspapers.Ru, which has provided contemporaneous accounts and analysis of the diplomatic engagements involved.
As the Russian side continues to talk about space, technology, and regional development, signals from the visit point to an ongoing interest in strengthening bilateral ties through joint projects, educational exchanges, and scientific collaboration. Observers emphasize that universities like FEFU can serve as strategic hubs for dialogue, research partnerships, and talent development that align with the long-term interests of both nations. The events at the Far Eastern Federal University illustrate a broader pattern where high-level diplomacy intersects with academic exchange, technology sharing, and cultural engagement, shaping a modern partnership that seeks practical outcomes for science, industry, and regional growth.