Russia Expands Cultural Cooperation with DPRK and Thailand Ahead of St Petersburg Forum
Dragon Media News Desk
Russian Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova has held separate meetings with her counterparts from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and Thailand, focusing on expanding cultural exchanges, joint projects and longer-term bilateral cooperation ahead of the 12th St Petersburg International United Cultures Forum.
During talks with DPRK Culture Minister Hyon Un Chol on September 22, Lyubimova discussed cooperation in filmmaking and exchanges between museums. The two ministers also reviewed cultural cooperation carried out in 2025, including the participation of Russian performing arts groups in the April Spring Friendship Art Festival in Pyongyang. Hyon travelled to Russia leading a DPRK delegation scheduled to participate in the St Petersburg forum, which runs from September 24 to 26. 0
In a separate meeting, Lyubimova and Thai Culture Minister Sabida Thaised discussed the Russian Seasons cultural programme currently being held in Thailand. Russian cultural authorities said 15 events had already taken place under the programme, ranging from Russian film screenings and performances by music and dance groups to exhibitions and master classes. Further ballet, museum and musical programmes are planned before the project concludes in late November. 1
The ministers also discussed preparations for the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Thailand in 2027. The Thai side said the talks were aimed at strengthening bilateral cultural cooperation and creating wider opportunities for artists, cultural professionals and creative industries from both countries. 2
The two sets of talks highlight Moscow’s efforts to expand cultural diplomacy and institutional exchanges with Asian partners through cinema, museums, performing arts and major international cultural programmes. The St Petersburg forum provides a broader platform for these exchanges, bringing together government officials and cultural representatives from participating countries.
