North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gifted Russian President Vladimir Putin a pair of Pungsan dogs, symbolizing growing ties as the two countries signed a mutual defense pact amidst international scrutiny.

The exchange of the Pungsan dogs, a symbolic gesture in North Korean diplomacy, coincides with the signing of a mutual defense pact between North Korea and Russia. This pact encompasses cooperation on nuclear energy, space exploration, and food and energy security. The move has drawn criticism from Washington and Seoul, who claim that the agreement may involve illicit arms trade for Russia's use against Ukraine. The growing alliance between the two nations is being closely monitored given its potential impact on international geopolitical stability.

The Pungsan dogs gifted by Kim Jong Un are a local breed from northern North Korea. Known for their loyalty, intelligence, and hunting prowess, these dogs hold cultural significance and are often used in diplomatic gestures. The sight of Kim and Putin examining the dogs, tied to a rose-covered fence, captured the symbolic nature of the meeting.

Adding to the day's activities, Kim and Putin took turns driving each other around in a Russian-built Aurus limousine, showcasing a rare moment of camaraderie between the two leaders. This spectacle of mutual appreciation was closely documented by state media from both countries.

Kim Jong Un, known for his symbolic use of animals in state visuals, has a history of riding horses named after the mythical winged horse Chollima. These horses are emblematic of North Korean strength and resiliency. Kim was famously pictured riding a white stallion in North Korea’s Mount Paektu during snowfall in 2019, and again in a propaganda video in 2022. The mythical representation extends beyond living animals, with the country’s latest rocket booster also being named Chollima-1.

The Pungsan dogs are not the first instance of Kim using animals in diplomatic gestures. In 2018, former South Korean President Moon Jae-in received a pair of white Pungsan dogs during a period of improved inter-Korean relations. Such gestures are intended to symbolize trust and friendship between the receiving and giving countries.

The defense pact signed by Kim and Putin marks a significant step in the relationship between North Korea and Russia. This agreement outlines cooperation on various strategic areas, such as nuclear energy and space exploration, as well as food and energy security. The alliance represents a convergence of interests between the two countries in the face of mounting international pressure.

However, the agreement has not been without controversy. Officials in Washington and Seoul have accused North Korea and Russia of potentially violating international laws by trading arms. Such actions are believed to be in support of Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine, an allegation that has gathered evidence with Ukrainian officials finding North Korean missile debris inside Ukraine.

The defense pact and the timing of the gift exchange come shortly after a freight train carrying 30 grey thoroughbred horses was dispatched from Russia to North Korea. This adds another layer to the complex relationship between the two countries, especially post-pandemic, highlighting their mutual support.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, often portrayed in state media with a strongman image, has had a history of being photographed in unorthodox and symbolic settings, similar to Kim’s equestrian imagery. These instances underscore the personalized diplomacy both leaders engage in to reinforce their leadership personas domestically and internationally.

The symbolic gifting of the Pungsan dogs reflects the diplomatic engagement between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin.