The Nostalgia for the Soviet Union: Russia's Growing Affinity with North Korea
In a recent interview with Ukrinform, Natalia Butyrska, a senior associate analyst at the 'New Europe' Center and an expert on the Asia-Pacific region, expressed her concerns regarding the Russian public's reaction to the growing ties with North Korea, highlighting a sense of nostalgia for the Soviet era.
In her recent interview with Ukrinform, Natalia Butyrska, a senior associate analyst at the 'New Europe' Center and an expert on the Asia-Pacific region, voiced her concerns about how Russian society is responding to the increasing closeness with North Korea. According to her, this phenomenon evokes a sense of nostalgia for the times of the Soviet Union among many Russians, indicating the country's inability to transform after its collapse.
Butyrska emphasized that while Russians actively enjoy the benefits of an open world, Soviet nostalgia still dominates their worldview. She noted that the perception of 'greatness' based on the past continues to influence their consciousness. 'Thus, the rapprochement with North Korea does not seem like a problem for many; on the contrary, it evokes a certain nostalgia,' the analyst stated.
According to Butyrska, Russians who visit North Korea often remark that 'it reminds them of the Soviet Union,' and they perceive this in a positive light. She added that they are not particularly troubled by the strict control exercised by the North Korean authorities, which includes route restrictions, monitored movements, and regulated contacts.
The expert also pointed out the significant role of Russian propaganda in shaping this perception. She provided examples where high-ranking officials, such as Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and President Vladimir Putin, exalt the 'brotherly assistance' of North Korea, emphasizing that no one else supports Russia as devotedly as North Korea does. 'For Russian society, this explanation is sufficient,' Butyrska noted, comparing it to other issues, such as the invasion of Ukraine.
It is worth recalling that according to a study by the Yonhap agency, North Korea may have received up to $14.4 billion from Russia for weapons and a directed military contingent for the war against Ukraine. This indicates a deep cooperation between the two countries, raising concerns in the international community.
Thus, the situation with North Korea and its influence on Russian society is an important aspect that requires further analysis. The nostalgia for Soviet times, combined with contemporary political propaganda, creates a unique context for understanding the relations between Russia and North Korea.