South Korea Summons Russian Ambassador Over Defense Pact with North Korea

South Korea's foreign ministry has taken diplomatic action in response to Russia and North Korea signing a mutual defense pact. The agreement was met with concern from Japan, the United States, and South Korea itself, which summoned the Russian ambassador to express its disapproval. According to reports, First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun urged Russia to "act responsibly" during the meeting with Ambassador Georgy Zinoviev. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with some analysts suggesting that the pact may be a strategic move by North Korea to strengthen its position in the region.