South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) reported on Wednesday that North Korea has deployed additional troops to support Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The NIS is currently evaluating the exact number of North Korean soldiers sent to Russia, particularly in the Kursk region, where troops were redeployed after a brief withdrawal earlier this month.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on February 7 that North Korean forces are actively fighting alongside Russian troops in Kursk, a critical area for renewed military operations. North Korea has been supplying Russia with a significant amount of conventional weaponry, with estimates indicating that approximately 10,000 to 12,000 North Korean soldiers were initially sent to support Russia's invasion last fall.
Recent reports suggest that between 1,000 and 3,000 additional North Korean soldiers have been sent to Kursk from January to February, raising concerns among South Korea, the U.S., and their allies.
This military collaboration raises fears that Russia may reward North Korea with advanced weapon technologies that could enhance its nuclear capabilities, in addition to potential economic support.
In a broader context, recent discussions between Russia and the U.S. indicate a shift in diplomatic relations as both countries explore ways to end the war and improve economic ties, while Ukrainian officials were notably absent from these talks. Observers speculate that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may continue to send troops to Russia in pursuit of further assistance as the conflict progresses.