Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea enforced a stringent prevention strategy by completely closing its borders, leading to a significant decrease in diplomatic activities in Pyongyang.
As Pyongyang started to ease its epidemic control measures last year, Mongolia was among the four countries granted permission to rotate their diplomatic personnel in North Korea, alongside China, Russia, and Cuba.
While North Korea aims to strengthen its ties with Russia and China, the ambassadors of Mongolia, Cuba, and other nations in Pyongyang are actively working to foster bilateral relations. For instance, Choe Ryong Hae engaged in discussions with the new Mongolian Ambassador to North Korea, Erdenedavaa Luvsantseren, after he presented his credentials in late January.
In a notable development, North Korea dispatched an official to visit Mongolia for the first time in five years. Deputy Foreign Minister Pak Myung Ho of North Korea met with his counterpart and Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh in Ulaanbaatar, and also had an audience with Mongolia’s President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa.
Furthermore, North Korea has been invited to participate in the Ulaanbaatar Dialogue and the World Women’s Congress in Ulaanbaatar. The country’s efforts to reconnect with the international community extend beyond traditional partners like Russia and China, as evidenced by utilizing Mongolian channels to engage with Japan.
South Korea has also been actively fostering relations with Mongolia, as highlighted in its Indo Pacific Strategy and plans to establish a Rare Metal Cooperation Center with Mongolia for semiconductor minerals production.
In terms of soft power, Mongolian individuals influenced by the Korean Wave exhibit a growing interest in studying and working in South Korea, with a significant number currently studying there and numerous universities in Mongolia offering Korean language majors.
While tensions escalate on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea’s decision to establish diplomatic relations with Cuba has introduced new dynamics in international relations, prompting reactions from North Korea.
Amidst evolving diplomatic landscapes, countries like North Korea are actively seeking new alliances and connections beyond their traditional partners to safeguard national interests and navigate shifting global dynamics.
In the intricate game of international relations, countries strive to position themselves favorably while adapting to changing circumstances, highlighting the importance of protecting national interests in diplomatic decision-making.