North Korea Sends Vice Ministers to Vietnam and UN Assembly

North Korean Vice Defense Minister Ryo Chol-ung has traveled to Vietnam with a delegation, though Pyongyang has not disclosed the trip’s purpose or itinerary. The visit follows a series of high-level exchanges signaling closer North Korea-Vietnam ties, including Vietnamese leader To Lam’s visit to Pyongyang and recent ministerial talks on foreign affairs, security and law enforcement. Separately, Vice Foreign Minister Kim Son-gyong has left for New York to attend the 81st U.N. General Assembly, where he is expected to address the General Debate’s final day. His attendance would mark North Korea’s return of a minister-level official to the gathering after a six-year absence, and his remarks are expected to reiterate Pyongyang’s positions on its nuclear program and international affairs.