Seoul has called for the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops from Russia. During a meeting with Russian ambassador Georgiy Zinoviev, South Korean vice-foreign minister Kim Hong-kyun expressed strong opposition to the presence of approximately 1,500 North Korean soldiers, including special forces, in Russia. Kim warned that Seoul is prepared to utilize all available measures in response.
South Korea’s intelligence agency has indicated that these North Korean soldiers are undergoing training to participate in the conflict in Ukraine. The South Korean government has summoned the Russian ambassador to demand the withdrawal of these troops.
Zinoviev acknowledged the concerns but emphasized that the collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang operates within international law. He did not verify claims regarding North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces. Alternatively, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reassured that their cooperation is not aimed at any third country and should not raise concerns.
Historically, South Korea has accused North Korea of supplying arms to Russia, suggesting that the situation has escalated beyond mere military supply. Some reports estimate that up to 12,000 North Korean soldiers could be deployed.
Kim Hong-kyun highlighted that this situation poses a significant threat not just to South Korea but to the international community as well. The cooperation between Russia and North Korea has strengthened since the signing of a security pact between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un in June, which includes mutual defense commitments.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte asserted that North Korea’s involvement would signify a considerable escalation in the ongoing conflict. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has urged NATO to consider effective countermeasures and emphasized enhancing security collaboration among South Korea, Ukraine, and NATO.
British Foreign Minister David Lammy labeled Russia’s actions as reckless and illegal, pledging to assist Seoul in response efforts. The United States and Japan have also condemned the growing military ties between North Korea and Russia.
In response to inquiries about this cooperation, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson urged all parties to work towards de-escalation and pursue a political resolution to the Ukraine crisis.
Defense experts have indicated that North Korea’s participation could further complicate the conflict, potentially leading to increased international involvement and sanctions against both Russia and North Korea. However, some analysts caution that Russian forces may face challenges in integrating North Korean troops due to language barriers and a lack of recent combat experience.
It has been suggested that North Korean soldiers may be assigned to guard specific areas along the Russian-Ukrainian border to allow Russian forces to focus their efforts elsewhere.