South Korea's Defense Ministry stated North Korea is continuing preparations for additional troop deployments to Russia, though no signs indicate an imminent move. The ministry also noted ongoing weapons systems supply to Russia, including short-range ballistic missiles.
The ongoing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including potential troop deployments and weapons supply, has significant geopolitical implications, particularly concerning regional stability in Northeast Asia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
South Korea's Defense Ministry has indicated that North Korea is continuing preparations for an additional troop deployment to Russia, although no signs suggest such a move is imminent. This assessment was conveyed to lawmaker Yu Yong-weon's office.
Last week, Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, denied claims made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy that Pyongyang intended to send up to 50,000 more troops to fight for Russia. The South Korean ministry also reported that North Korea has continued to supply Russia with weapons systems, including short-range ballistic missiles, and is estimated to have provided over 15 million rounds of artillery ammunition.
According to the lawmaker's office, citing a Defense Intelligence Agency assessment, North Korean missiles used in the conflict may have seen accuracy improvements due to battlefield data, Russian technical advice, and component support. The ministry also noted that the development of certain North Korean ballistic missiles and multiple rocket launchers, apparently intended for use against South Korea, is nearing completion. Furthermore, North Korea's Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile, capable of reaching Guam, is reportedly being prepared for operational deployment.
While North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missiles possess the capability to reach the U.S. mainland, key technologies such as warhead re-entry have not been verified due to test launches being conducted on lofted trajectories. Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia has intensified since Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with Pyongyang supplying artillery ammunition and missiles since 2023 and deploying troops from 2024, according to assessments from South Korea, Ukraine, and Western nations. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have previously denied any arms transfers.