South Korea is demanding the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops from Russia, with concerns that they are receiving training to fight in Ukraine. Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun expressed strong disapproval during a meeting with Russian Ambassador Georgiy Zinoviev. He warned that Seoul would respond using all available measures. South Korea’s spy agency has reported that approximately 1,500 North Korean soldiers, including special forces, have already arrived in Russia.
The Russian ambassador acknowledged the concerns but highlighted that the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang operates “within the framework of international law.” He did not confirm reports about North Korean troops being sent to assist Russian forces. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reassured that the partnership is not aimed at third countries and should not cause worry.
There are reports suggests that as many as 12,000 North Korean soldiers might be deployed, which South Korea believes poses a significant threat to both its national security and the international community. The cooperation between North Korea and Russia has been bolstered since a security pact was signed by their leaders in June, pledging mutual support in cases of aggression.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte indicated that North Korean troop deployment would represent a serious escalation in the conflict. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has called for NATO to consider practical countermeasures and aims to enhance security cooperation with Ukraine and NATO.
During a visit to Seoul, British Foreign Minister David Lammy characterized Russia’s actions as reckless and illegal, promising collaboration with South Korea in addressing this issue. The U.S. and Japan have also condemned the strengthening of military ties between North Korea and Russia.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized the need for all parties to work towards de-escalation and a political solution to the Ukraine crisis. Defence analysts have noted that North Korea’s involvement could complicate the conflict and make it a greater international issue. However, there are concerns about the North Korean troops’ integration into Russian forces due to language barriers and a lack of recent combat experience.
Experts suggest that North Korean soldiers might be assigned to secure parts of the Russian-Ukrainian border, allowing Russian military units to redeploy for frontline efforts, without immediate deployment to active combat zones.