The beginning of this dialogue depends on the readiness of South Korea, Russian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Georgy Zinovyev told RIA Novosti.

The diplomat noted that, during regular contacts between specialized agencies, the Russian side explained that the implementation of plans for using the Northern Sea Route required close cooperation, including navigation issues and efforts to facilitate safe navigation in the Arctic zone.

“In this connection, I would like to reaffirm our readiness for constructive dialogue on the Northern Sea Route issue. The beginning of this dialogue depends on whether South Korea really wants to develop the Northern Sea Route,” Georgy Zinovyev added.

Earlier, Acting South Korean Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Kim Seong-beom noted that Seoul was planning to conduct a trial run via the Northern Sea Route in September 2026 and said cooperation with Russia was highly important for developing the Northern Sea Route.