North Korea’s Troop Deployment to Russia
North Korea is planning to send additional troops to Russia to aid in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the deployment potentially starting as soon as July, according to a South Korean lawmaker who cited information from the National Intelligence Service. This announcement comes shortly after Sergei Shoigu, the head of Russia’s Security Council, indicated that North Korean military builders and engineers would assist in the reconstruction efforts in the Kursk region during his recent visit to Pyongyang.
Lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun reported that North Korea has continued to bolster its support for Russia by sending troops and military supplies, which have been integral to Moscow’s campaigns in Kursk. “Following the dispatch of 11,000 personnel last October, Russia has confirmed another deployment of 4,000 troops, along with 6,000 construction workers tasked with rebuilding efforts in the area,” Lee stated during a press briefing.
Implications of North Korea’s Support
According to assessments from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, these new North Korean troop deployments could be executed by July or August. Notably, recent analysis suggested that Shoigu’s previous visits to Pyongyang occurred about a month prior to prior troop deployments, raising expectations about the timing of this new assistance. Moreover, reports indicate that North Korea has commenced the selection process for personnel to be sent to Russia, signaling that preparations are already in motion.
As the war in Ukraine continues to progress, North Korea has emerged as a vital partner for Russia, aiding its military operations significantly. Estimates suggest that North Korea has supplied Russia with several million artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems, which have been transported by both maritime and air routes, enhancing Russia’s military capabilities in Ukraine.
Military Ties Between Russia and North Korea
The relationship between Russia and North Korea has strengthened significantly, especially following a military agreement signed last year that includes a mutual defense clause. This collaboration was emphasized during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s rare visit to North Korea, highlighting the growing military ties between the two nations amid international tensions.
Recent reports shed light on the human cost of this alliance, revealing that around 600 North Korean soldiers have reportedly died in combat supporting Russian forces, with many others sustaining injuries. In April, North Korea acknowledged for the first time that it had deployed troops to Ukraine, confirming the loss of its soldiers in the conflict. North Korean state media indicated that leader Kim Jong Un has plans for further military cooperation with Russia, although specific details of these commitments remain unclear.
