Russia's foreign ministry says the country's ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, has died. He is believed to have had warm relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The ministry said on Monday that Matsegora died on Saturday at age 70. He served as the ambassador since 2014.
Russian media reports say Matsegora was personally invited by Kim to a celebratory event marking the 79th anniversary of the founding of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party in October last year.
Matsegora has been working to strengthen bilateral ties in recent years. He played a role in helping the two countries sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty. The pact includes mutual military assistance during a contingency.
Matsegora frequently posted on social media about the situation of North Korea with photos. Experts on North Korea in Japan, South Korea and elsewhere saw him as a valuable source of information.
Meanwhile, Tuesday's edition of North Korea's ruling party newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported that Kim Jong Un sent a message of condolence to Russian President Vladimir Putin following Matsegora's death.
Kim reportedly said in the message that the sudden demise of the ambassador at the present time, when the development of relations between North Korea and Russia has entered a crucial historic phase is indeed a heartrending event.
He also said it is a great loss not only to the Russian government and people but also to him personally and to the North Korean people.

Quiz 1:
Who was Russia's ambassador to North Korea who recently passed away?
A. Alexander Putin
B. Sergei Lavrov
C. Alexander Matsegora
D. Vladimir Kim

[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 1: C

Quiz 2:
How old was Alexander Matsegora at the time of his death?
A. 60 years
B. 70 years
C. 80 years
D. 90 years

[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 2: B

Quiz 3:
Which event did Kim Jong Un invite Alexander Matsegora to in October last year?
A. The celebration of the 78th anniversary of the founding of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party
B. The celebration of the 79th anniversary of the founding of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party
C. The celebration of the 80th anniversary of the founding of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party
D. The celebration of the 81st anniversary of the founding of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party

[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 3: B