This is a super stupid political move from Putin. NK doesn't have a great name on the world stage, China already isolated via tariffs and trade and the ongoing talks. Putin gets absolutely nothing from this other than incensing the lefty pro-Ukraine crowd and making Russia the target of blue haired middle-aged white lady rage.Putin publicly thanked NK for sending troops:
Putin thanks North Korea for sending troops to fight Ukraine: 'Will never forget the heroism'
Read the room, Vlad!