Pyongyang: North Korea affirmed the "absolute solidity" of its alliance with Russia as it commemorated the first anniversary of their bilateral defense treaty, according to state media reports. This declaration came Thursday, underscoring the strengthened ties between the two nations over the past year.

According to Anadolu Agency, the North's main daily, Rodong Sinmun, which mirrors the official stance of the country, highlighted this message in an article celebrating the anniversary of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership treaty. The treaty, which was signed on June 19 of the previous year in Pyongyang by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, symbolizes a fortified bond between the two countries.

The daily described the treaty as a significant milestone that opened "a new chapter in the friendship" between North Korea and Russia. Both nations have actively demonstrated the "absolute solidity of the alliance relationship," with the treaty obligating each party to assist the other promptly in the event of an armed attack.

Between last October and February, North Korea deployed approximately 14,000 troops to support Russia in its conflict against Ukraine. Rodong Sinmun referred to this deployment as the "most exemplary" implementation of the treaty, highlighting the unwavering commitment to a deepened militant friendship and mutual prosperity between the two countries.

Meanwhile, South Korea has expressed concerns about this military cooperation. On Thursday, Seoul-based Yonhap News reported that South Korea urged North Korea and Russia to cease what it termed "illegal military cooperation," which justifies Pyongyang's troop deployment to Moscow. A Foreign Ministry official emphasized the need for the cooperation to adhere strictly to UN Security Council resolutions and international law, aiming not to undermine peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and beyond.

Furthermore, Seoul has called upon Russia to take a "constructive" role in fostering peace and stability in the region. In April, North Korea confirmed for the first time its troop deployment to support Russia against Ukraine.

In a related development, North Korea plans to send an additional 1,000 combat engineers and 5,000 military construction workers to Russia's Kursk region for mine clearance and infrastructure restoration, as reported by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoygu. Shoygu recently visited Pyongyang, marking his third visit to the North Korean capital since March.