Despite of ongoing chronic food shortages and recent flood damage, North Korea has reportedly imported 24 expensive horses from Russia.
According to a press release from the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance’s Primorsky office on August 27, Russia sent 24 horses of the “Orlov Trotter” breed to North Korea on August 25.
The press release detailed that the shipment included 19 stallions and 5 mares, which were quarantined in the Vladimir region before being transported to North Korea.
The horses were moved in two specially equipped vehicles, arriving at the Khasan railway checkpoint before entering North Korea.
The Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance reviewed the sanitary conditions of the horses before approving their export.
The office also noted that all the horses sent to North Korea were implanted with microchips, allowing for identification of their origin. “The microchip eliminates the possibility of substituting a horse and confirms the purity of its origin,” the press release explained.
This marks North Korea’s first purchase of Russian horses in about 21 months. In November 2022, Russia had previously sent 30 horses to North Korea following the resumption of rail freight between the two countries, according to Radio Free Asia.
The Orlov Trotter breed, known for its striking appearance, endurance, and docility, is highly favored by the North Korean leadership. Notably, in late 2019, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made headlines when he was seen riding a white Orlov Trotter up Mount Paektu.
The price of the Orlov Trotter varies widely depending on age, health, and pedigree, with online listings ranging from at least $1,000 to over $150,000.
BY YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.youngnam@koreadaily.com]
