Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Sunday the Russian people will remember the bravery of soldiers from Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) who fought side by side in reclaiming the Kursk region.

In a message marking the opening of a memorial dedicated to overseas military operations, Putin said DPRK troops had come to Russia's assistance during the fighting, demonstrating courage and selfless commitment and earning enduring honor.

He added that the memorial was established to commemorate the heroism and sacrifices of DPRK soldiers in achieving what he described as a shared victory, and would stand as a symbol of friendship and unity between the two countries. 

Putin also expressed gratitude to DPRK troops who took part in the operation and paid tribute to those who lost their lives.

According to Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov, DPRK forces provided significant support in defeating Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region under the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty between the two countries.

'Unprecedentedly high level'

Separately, Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov held talks with Kim Jong Un, top leader of the DPRK, during a visit to Pyongyang, where both sides agreed to place military cooperation on a long-term, sustainable footing.

Belousov said the two countries are preparing to sign a military cooperation plan for the 2027-2031 period this year.

"Russian-Korean interstate relations are at an unprecedentedly high level," he said.