Starting this academic year, Russian has officially become a required subject in North Korean schools, beginning from the fourth grade.
The announcement came during a meeting in Moscow of the Russia–North Korea intergovernmental commission, where Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Alexander Kozlov, confirmed the move.
Earlier, Russia’s Ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, had indicated that mandatory Russian classes would take effect from April 1.
Rising Interest in Russian and Korean Languages
Russian has long held a spot among North Korea’s most popular foreign languages.
Currently, around 600 North Koreans are studying Russian.
Meanwhile, in Russia, over 3,000 schoolchildren are learning Korean, often as their second or third foreign language.
This mutual interest highlights the growing cultural and educational exchange between the two nations.
Expanding University Programs and Academic Exchanges
Academic cooperation between Russia and North Korea is steadily expanding.
Last year, 96 North Korean students enrolled in Russian universities, mainly at the Far Eastern Federal University, MGIMO, and RUDN University.
On the flip side, 300 Russian students pursued Korean studies at three pedagogical universities in Russia, reflecting a reciprocal commitment to understanding each other’s language and culture.
Professional Training Gets a Boost
Beyond schools and universities, specialized vocational and technical training is also a priority.
In 2025, 29 North Korean geologists completed programs at Russian institutions, focusing on field exploration, lab analysis, cartography, and data management.
Similar initiatives have been created for professionals in banking, energy, and healthcare, highlighting the practical applications of this educational partnership.
A Russian Language Center Opens in Pyongyang
Adding to these initiatives, a Russian-language Open Education Center is being established in Pyongyang at the Kim Chol Joo Pedagogical University.
Construction of a dedicated building is underway, signaling a long-term investment in language education.
Ambassador Matsegora also noted that the first Forum of University Rectors of Russia and North Korea was held in May 2025 at the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok, cementing academic ties between the two countries.
Looking Ahead
The move to make Russian a mandatory language subject marks a significant step in North Korea’s educational and diplomatic engagement with Russia.
With ongoing programs, exchanges, and new educational centers, the future promises deeper cooperation and shared expertise between the two nations.
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