Major N. Korean tech university engages in academic exchanges with China, Russia

This image, published in November by North Korea's monthly photo magazine Joseon, shows a science lab at a North Korean university. Yonhap

Kim Chaek University of Technology, a leading technology-focused institution in North Korea, was reported Thursday to have engaged in academic exchanges with China and Russia, in what could constitute a violation of international sanctions.

Kim Chaek University of Technology hosted an international academic conference from Tuesday to Wednesday in Pyongyang on the theme of advancing science, technology and strategic resources, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

The event was attended by heads of university science research institutes from China, Russia and other countries, including a vice president of Russia's Kazan Federal University, who delivered a congratulatory address, according to the KCNA.

In January, Kazan Federal University signed an agreement with the North Korean university to promote academic exchanges in the fields of education, science and technology.

This week's event included separate discussion sessions on environmental science, material engineering and other fields, the KCNA said.

U.N. Security Council Resolution 2321, adopted in 2016 in response to North Korea's nuclear test that year, prohibits engaging in science or technology cooperation with North Korea, except in the medical field, due to concerns that it could contribute to the country's nuclear and missile programs.

Engaging in any science or technology cooperation with Kim Chaek University of Technology could risk violating the resolution.