Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong Un 24 horses, including 19 stallions and five mares of the “Orlo Terter” breed.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong Un with a total of 24 horses. This shipment, which includes 19 stallions and five mares of the “Orlo Terter” breed, was sent from the Primorsky Krai region of Russia, known for its rail connection to North Korea.
The “Orlo Terter” breed is reportedly Kim’s favorite, and he has been seen riding one of these horses in various publicity photos. Notably, in 2022, 30 horses of the same breed were dispatched to Pyongyang.
According to reports from South Korean media, this recent delivery of horses may be linked to a transaction involving North Korean artillery shells supplied to the Russian military for use in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In June, Putin and Kim Jong Un formalized their relationship by signing a “Comprehensive Partnership Agreement” that emphasizes military collaboration between their two nations.
Shortly thereafter, North Korean state media KCNA reported that Kim presented Putin with a pair of Pongsan dogs, a native breed from North Korea. Additionally, in August, Russia sent 447 goats to North Korea.
Despite North Korea’s focus on developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, the country also maintains a strong tradition of cavalry units, making investments in this age-old military practice.
Official trade reports indicate that from 2020 to 2023, North Korea has allocated at least $600,000 for the import of thoroughbred horses from Russia.
