North Korea Sending 6,000 Workers to Russia’s Kursk Region

Intermediate | June 19, 2025

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A Helping Hand for Kursk

Background on the Situation

Russia recently announced that North Korea sends workers to Russia—specifically, 6,000 workers to help rebuild the Kursk region in Russia. This area has seen a lot of fighting and needs help getting back on its feet.

Who Made the Announcement

Sergei Shoigu, who is a top security official in Russia, shared the decision. He was visiting North Korea and met with leader Kim Jong Un. According to Russian news reports, the 6,000 workers will include 1,000 people whose job is to clear landmines and 5,000 who are military construction workers.

Strengthening Ties

Growing Relationship Between Russia and North Korea

Sending these workers is another sign that Russia and North Korea are becoming closer allies. They have been increasing their cooperation, especially since Russia’s conflict in Ukraine began. North Korea has reportedly sent weapons and even troops to support Russia.

Anniversary of an Agreement

This move is happening around the one-year anniversary of Russia and North Korea signing an important agreement to work together more closely. Both countries seem to be deepening their relationship, which is something many other countries are watching closely.

International Reactions

International actors have had mixed reactions. Countries like South Korea and the United States are worried about this cooperation. They point out that sending North Korean workers abroad might be against international rules, specifically UN sanctions that are in place.

What Does This Mean?

Nature of the Work

The workers will likely help with tasks like clearing dangerous areas and rebuilding buildings and roads that were damaged. It’s a big job, and North Korea’s support is being called “fraternal assistance” by Russia.

Global Implications

Overall, this development highlights the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea. The fact that North Korea sends workers to Russia shows a deepening alliance and raises questions about how it might affect the region and international relations going forward.

Vocabulary

Announced (verb): To make something known publicly.
Example: The president announced* the new policy yesterday.*
Region (noun): An area of land that has its own special qualities or is different from other areas.
Example: The Tuscany region* in Italy is famous for its wine.*
Rebuild (verb): To build something again after it has been damaged or destroyed.
Example: They will need to rebuild* the houses after the storm.*
Official (noun): A person who holds a position of authority in an organization or government.
Example: A government official* spoke about the new law.*
Clear (verb): To remove things that are not wanted from a place.
Example: We need to clear* the table after dinner.*
Landmines (noun): Bombs that are hidden in the ground and explode when stepped on.
Example: Removing landmines* is a very dangerous job.*
Construction workers (noun): People who build or repair buildings, roads, or other structures.
Example: The construction workers* are building a new bridge.*
Allies (noun): Countries or people who help and support each other, especially in a time of difficulty.
Example: The two countries have been allies* for many years.*
Cooperation (noun): The act of working together with someone or doing what they ask.
Example: Cooperation* between the teams is essential for success.*
Sanctions (noun): Official orders or laws stopping trade or communication with another country as a punishment or protest.
Example: The G7 put International sanctions* in place.*

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What is the main news story about North Korea and Russia?
Who announced North Korea’s plan to send workers?
What specific jobs will the North Korean workers do in the Kursk region?
Why are South Korea and the United States concerned about this development?
How does this event relate to the overall relationship between Russia and North Korea?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

What do you think motivates countries to send workers to other nations?
How can international cooperation help a region recover after conflict?
What are some potential challenges when workers from one country go to work in another?
How do you think international sanctions affect countries like North Korea?
Why is it important for countries to work together on global issues?

Related Idiom

“Lend a helping hand”
Meaning: To offer assistance or support to someone.
Example: They decided to “lend a helping hand” with the rebuilding efforts.

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This article was inspired by: The Korea Herald, June 16, 2025.