Indonesia and North Korea share a unique and unlikely friendship, built on decades of diplomatic ties, cultural exchanges, and historical connections.
The diplomatic relationship between Indonesia and North Korea is truly a tale of unlikely friends.
As someone from Indonesia, I find it fascinating that our country is home to one of the few North Korean (DPRK) embassies around the world, right here in Jakarta.
Despite the vast distance and contrasting political ideologies, we've managed to build a unique bond that has stood the test of time.
How It All Began: A Cold War Connection
The bond between Indonesia and North Korea dates back to the early 1960s, during the height of the Cold War.
Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, was committed to maintaining an independent foreign policy, steering clear of domination by Western or Eastern superpowers.
Meanwhile, Kim Il-sung, North Korea’s founding leader, was equally focused on self-reliance and resisting external influence, especially after the unresolved Korean War.
When Sukarno and Kim Il-sung met in 1965, their shared views on independence and resistance to imperialism laid the foundation for a strong personal and political connection.
As a gesture of friendship, Sukarno gifted Kim Il-sung a rare orchid, which was later named Kimilsungia in his honour.
Today, this flower holds national significance in North Korea and is displayed prominently at the Kimilsungia-Kimjongilia Flower Exhibition Hall in Pyongyang.
A Diplomatic Bond Through Changing Times
As Indonesia transitioned from Sukarno’s leadership to Suharto’s New Order regime in the late 1960s and eventually evolved into the modern democracy it is today, its relationship with North Korea remained stable.
Fast forward to 2015, Sukarno’s daughter, Megawati Sukarnoputri, became president and made history as the first—and so far only—Indonesian leader to visit Pyongyang.
While the political landscapes of both nations shifted, cultural and sports exchanges helped maintain ties.
North Korean athletes competed in events like the Asian Games, while Indonesian audiences were introduced to North Korean art and performances.
These moments of cultural diplomacy helped foster understanding beyond official politics.
The Assassination of Kim Jong-Nam
One of the most significant challenges in Indonesia-North Korea relations came in 2017, when Kim Jong-nam, the estranged half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was assassinated at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Two women—one Indonesian and one Vietnamese—were arrested and accused of carrying out the attack using a highly toxic nerve agent.
While Vietnam strongly defended its citizens, Indonesia took a more diplomatic approach, offering support to its nationals while maintaining its neutral stance.
The incident could have strained relations, but Indonesia’s cautious handling ensured that its long-standing ties with North Korea remained intact.
Indonesia’s Role in Diplomatic Efforts
Indonesia has consistently positioned itself as a mediator in global conflicts, advocating for peaceful dialogue and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
As a leading member of the Non-Aligned Movement, Indonesia has encouraged North Korea to engage in diplomatic discussions and de-escalate tensions with the international community.
Unlike many Western nations, Indonesia has never severed diplomatic ties with North Korea.
Both countries continue to operate embassies in each other’s capitals, keeping communication channels open despite global political shifts.
Looking Ahead: A Quiet but Lasting Friendship
Today, Indonesia’s relationship with North Korea is low-profile but enduring.
There are no major economic partnerships, yet diplomatic ties remain strong, built on a history of mutual understanding.
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