N. Korea's Vice Defense Minister Departs for Vietnam Amid Deepening Ties

North Korean Vice Defense Minister Ryo Chol-ung has departed for Vietnam, marking a significant step in the strengthening of relations between the two nations. The delegation, led by Ryo, left Pyongyang on September 22, 2026, and was seen off by various officials, including Vietnam's ambassador to North Korea.

This visit comes at a time when both countries have been enhancing their cooperation, with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un previously expressing commitment to strengthening ties in a letter to Vietnamese President To Lam. This letter coincided with Vietnam's 81st founding anniversary.

The relationship between North Korea and Vietnam has been on an upward trajectory since a summit in October 2025, which was the first visit by a high-ranking Vietnamese official to North Korea in nearly two decades. Following that, Vietnamese Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung visited North Korea in May for discussions with his North Korean counterpart.

As both nations continue to explore avenues for collaboration, the specifics of Ryo's itinerary and the objectives of this visit remain undisclosed. However, the growing partnership is indicative of a broader strategy to enhance bilateral ties in various sectors.