Exchange Occurs on Jan 2 2026 Amid Strengthened Relations Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia’s foreign ministry, announced on Telegram that she received a New Year gift from Kim Yo‑jong, delivered by North Korean ambassador Sin Hong‑chol, on 2 January 2026 [1]. The gesture follows a similar exchange reported on 30 December 2025, underscoring a pattern of reciprocal gifting between Moscow and Pyongyang [2]. Both reports frame the exchange as a symbolic extension of the comprehensive strategic partnership signed in June 2024. The timing coincides with New Year greetings exchanged by President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong‑un, reinforcing the diplomatic momentum.

Return Portrait Details Differ Between Russian Reports Zakharova said Russia sent back a portrait of Kim Jong‑un as its return gift [1], while the earlier report described the return gift as a portrait of Kim Yo‑jong painted by Nikas Safronov [2]. The discrepancy suggests either multiple portraits were exchanged or differing Russian communications about the same item. Both articles agree that a portrait was central to the Russian return gift, highlighting its symbolic weight. The Telegram post in the December 2025 account also displayed a large vase alongside the portrait, an element not mentioned in the January 2026 update [2].

Gifts Symbolize Expanding Security and Diplomatic Cooperation Both Yonhap pieces link the gift exchange to broader cooperation on security, diplomacy, and economic fronts, noting that the partnership deepened after the 2024 treaty [1][2]. The exchange is portrayed as a “precious common asset” by North Korean state media, reflecting mutual strategic interests. Russian officials emphasize the “tenderness and strength” embodied in the portrait, aligning cultural gestures with geopolitical alignment [2]. The continuity of such exchanges signals an ongoing effort to cement the alliance beyond formal agreements.

Additional Items and Rhetoric Emphasize Alliance Value The December 2025 article highlighted a decorative vase shown in Zakharova’s Telegram post, suggesting the gifts included both artistic and material components [2]. Kim Jong‑un’s New Year message described the bilateral relationship as a “precious common asset,” reinforcing the narrative of a valuable partnership [2]. These cultural tokens complement high‑level diplomatic overtures, illustrating how symbolic exchanges are leveraged to project unity and shared purpose.