Written By Lisa Murimi
South Korea’s spy agency claims that North Korea has begun sending troops to support Russia in its war against Ukraine, with an initial 1,500 soldiers already arriving in Russia.
The figure could increase to as many as 12,000, sparking a serious warning from South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who called for an international response to this “grave security threat.”
The announcement follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s remarks, suggesting intelligence had revealed the possible deployment of 10,000 North Korean troops to aid Russia.
In a security meeting on Friday, attended by South Korea’s National Security Office, Defence Ministry, and National Intelligence Service, officials agreed to respond using “all available means.”
This development adds to growing evidence of North Korea’s military support for Russia, including ammunition shipments.
Seoul released aerial photographs showing North Korean troops stationed in Russian military bases and Russian ships allegedly transporting soldiers from North Korea’s Chongjin port.
Military experts have voiced skepticism about the combat readiness of North Korean troops due to language barriers and lack of recent combat experience, but they may be used to guard border areas, freeing Russian units for frontline operations.
