Wed Sep 11 06:59:04 UTC 2024: ## North Korea’s Skies Buzz with Russian Activity, Raising Concerns
**Seoul, September 11, 2024** – A surge in Russian aircraft activity in North Korean airspace over the past year has raised alarm bells in the West, indicating a deepening relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang. According to a flight data analysis published by NK Pro, a South Korea-based specialist site, there has been an “unprecedented surge” of Russian planes entering North Korean airspace since July 2023.
This increase in air traffic comes amidst growing tensions between the West and Russia over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying weapons to Russia, a move that would violate arms control measures.
The growing ties between Moscow and Pyongyang have been further cemented by a mutual defense agreement signed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in June. This move has sparked concerns in Seoul, particularly as relations between North and South Korea are at their lowest point in years.
While the surge in Russian flights suggests a strengthening military alliance, the overall recovery of North Korea’s flag carrier, Air Koryo, has been sluggish. Experts believe that this indicates China’s dissatisfaction with the burgeoning relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow.
According to Lee Dong-gyu, a research fellow at the Asan Institute, China’s reluctance to resume tourism to North Korea may be a sign of its displeasure. Tourism from China was a significant source of revenue for North Korea before the pandemic, and its continued absence suggests a subtle form of pressure being applied by China.
This development further complicates the already volatile geopolitical landscape in the region. The increasing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, coupled with China’s cautious approach, highlights the complex dynamics at play in Northeast Asia.
First Piper 