North Korea typically runs low on food around this time of year, before corn crops are harvested in September.
Since terms have been shaky between the DPRK and the United States and South Korea, the North is turning to a new country for help, Mongolia.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Pyongyang's new ambassador, Hong Gyu, put in a food aid request in person to Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj while visiting the country celebrating the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two powers.
According to the official website for the President of Mongolia, Mr. Elbegdorg received a "letter of Credence" from the ambassador and was told "North Korea may face (a) severe food shortage."
Leaders from both parties believe this will further strengthen bilateral relationships between North Korea and Mongolia. As a token of gratitude for his kind relations, Mr. Gyu also invited the President back to North Korea.
According to the presidential website, Mr. Gyu also "noted that North Korea is committed to intensify economic reform." Mongolia expressed the same sentiments in regards to economic transformation.
North Koreas' toughest part of the year in terms of food begins in April and lasts until September. The DPRK has faced tough times in terms of food production before, during the 90's.
According to Kwon Tae-jin, director at the Korea Rural Economic Institute in Seoul, last year's harvest was moderate and may be an indicator of how hard it will be on the people in the North this year.
"We've learned that while rations are being delivered, it varies region by region," said Dr. Kwon, "But it isn't sufficient to go around for everyone."
Other sources, such as the Daily NK, a website run by North Korean defectors, said shortages are already occurring.
During the annual April 15 birthday celebration for North Korean founder Kim Il Sung, Pyongyang didn't distribute food to the northernmost province. This is a bit shocking as Il Sung's birthday is the biggest holiday of the year.
