Russia and North Korea are expanding cooperation in the field of medicine. In particular, it is planned for North Korean doctors to undergo internships in cardiology and oncology at leading medical centers in Moscow. This was reported by the Russian embassy in Pyongyang on its official Facebook page.
Russia - North Korea medical relations are becoming active
The Russian ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, met with the Deputy Minister of Health of North Korea, Chon Sol Ren, to discuss cooperation in the field of medicine between the two countries. Within the framework of this cooperation:
- Assistance from Russia in modernizing North Korea's pharmaceutical sector;
- Collaboration in the production of modern antibiotics;
- Establishment of new medical institutions in North Korea.
The North Korean side has expressed its readiness to share some national medical achievements. According to Chon Sol Ren, this medicine can show "very high efficiency".
North Korean medicines are being sold in Russia
Due to the strengthening of medical cooperation between the two countries, a representative office of the "Pugang" pharmaceutical factory from Pyongyang was opened in Russia in the fall of 2023. Following this, biologically active additives (BAA) produced in North Korea entered the Russian market.
For example, a preparation called "Kumdan-2" is an injectable serum based on "six-year-old ginseng". Sellers describe it as having properties for rejuvenation, tissue regeneration, and boosting immunity. The price for three boxes can reach up to 7,000 rubles.
Are North Korean medicines really effective?
Journalists conducted a survey about the actual composition and effectiveness of preparations like "Kumdan-2". Pharmacists in Russia reported that they have no information about such medicines.
The results of the examination conducted in South Korea were even more interesting:
- The composition of the ampoules contained only the pain-relieving substance procaine (novocaine).
- No other beneficial substances were found.
Such analyses indicate that the actual effectiveness of these medicines is questionable. Nevertheless, they are actively sold in Russia.
Russia and North Korea continue to develop cooperation in the field of medicine. North Korean doctors are expected to undergo internships in Moscow, the pharmaceutical sector is to be modernized, and new medical institutions are to be established. However, the questionable information about North Korean medicines raises serious concerns regarding their safety and effectiveness.
Medical cooperation may strengthen ties between the two countries, but there is also a possibility that dubious medicines could pose a risk to public health.
