Overview
- The Russian Foreign Ministry said Alexander Matsegora died on Dec. 6, praising his role in building a comprehensive strategic partnership with North Korea.
- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent a personal message to Vladimir Putin calling Matsegora a close friend and describing the death as a great loss at a crucial phase in ties.
- Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu lauded Matsegora as a true patriot, while North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui sent condolences to Sergei Lavrov.
- Matsegora, a career Korea specialist who became ambassador in 2014, oversaw the warming of relations capped by a 2024 pact pledging mutual aid if either side faces aggression.
- Media reports have highlighted North Korean support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, including reported deployments of troops to the Kursk region following the partnership deal.