North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed his commitment to deepening cooperation with Russia in a message to President Vladimir Putin, coinciding with North Korea's anniversary of independence from Japanese colonial rule. Highlighting the historical camaraderie established during World War II, Kim described their relationship as a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' and 'invincible comradeship.' This comes amid allegations from South Korea, Ukraine, and the United States that North Korea is supplying rockets and missiles to assist Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, in exchange for economic and military support. Notably, North Korean media did not reference a recent unification proposal from South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, which some experts view skeptically, suggesting it poses a threat to Pyongyang's regime. Kim's reaffirmation of ties follows a summit with Putin in June, during which both leaders signed a mutual defense agreement. The deepening North Korea-Russia relationship raises concerns internationally, particularly regarding the implications for regional security on the Korean Peninsula.