Closer North Korea-China-Russia ties; Pyongyang’s strategic moves amid rising tensions

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon.

As the world watches new fault lines emerge between global powers, the Korean Peninsula is no longer just reacting to regional tensions—it's actively reshaping them.

From North Korea's open military support for Russia in Ukraine to the first diplomatic appearance of Kim Jong-un's daughter Ju-ae, Pyongyang is sending deliberate signals about its strategic intent and succession.

At the same time, Russia and China are aligning more openly with North Korea—politically, militarily, and diplomatically—challenging Western pressure and sanctions.

And all of this comes just weeks before South Korea decides on its next leadership, under the shadow of a rapidly shifting security order.

For a closer look into the moving dynamics, we are joined in the studio by Go Myong-hyun, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy. Welcome

Also joining us is Frank Jannuzi, President & CEO of The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation. Great to see you.

1. (GO) Now Dr. Go, on Russia's Victory Day, Chairman Kim Jong-un paid a visit to the Russian Embassy in North Korea and declared that "if Ukraine is left unattended, Seoul's military might also grow recklessly brave."

2. (GO) Building on that justification, Kim Jong-un also underscored that their troop deployment fulfills obligations under the "Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" with Russia, reinforcing the image of a formal alliance. Why do you think he chose to spotlight this treaty now?

3. (JANNUZI) Beyond strategic rhetoric, the optics of the visit also stood out—Kim was accompanied by his daughter, Ju-ae, marking her first appearance at an official diplomatic event. Mr.Jannuzi, does this signal a stronger establishment of her role as his successor? And again, why do you think Pyongyang chose this moment, in front of the Russian diplomatic corps, for her debut?

4. (GO) Meanwhile, Kim's recent flurry of on-site inspections—three visits in one week—to observe its super-large multiple rocket launchers has drawn attention, especially as these systems could resemble nuclear capability. Dr. Go, could these developments be aimed at Russia as part of arms cooperation? How far do you see North Korea–Russia military collaboration expanding?

5. (JANNUZI) That growing cooperation seems increasingly visible. After months of denial, Russia has now begun publicly showcasing footage of North Korean troops engaged in military operations. Mr. Jannuzi, what's driving this sudden openness and promotion of bilateral military ties?

6. (GO) On the heels of that publicity, new satellite analysis indicates major upgrades underway at North Korea's Chongjin Port.

7. (JANNUZI) This military assertiveness is also being backed diplomatically. On May 8th, Presidents Putin and Xi issued a joint statement urging an end to sanctions and pressure on North Korea. Considering China's previously more restrained stance, what explains this recent diplomatic alignment, Mr. Jannuzi?

8. (JANNUZI) Taken together, these coordinated moves—from military drills to diplomatic declarations—suggest a tightening triangle between North Korea, China, and Russia. What broader message do you think this united front sends to the U.S. and its allies?

9. (GO) Finally, Dr. Go, South Korea's presidential election is now less than three weeks away, and amid these shifting regional dynamics, what should the next administration prioritize first in shaping its foreign and security policy on the Korean Peninsula?