North Korea Deploys 10,000 Troops to Support Russia in Ukraine Conflict: Seoul Reports

SEOUL: South Korea's intelligence agency confirmed on Friday that North Korea has initiated the deployment of approximately 10,000 soldiers to support Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in Pyongyang's involvement in global military affairs. According to Yonhap News Agency, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) disclosed this development following an emergency security meeting chaired by President Yoon Suk Yeol, prompted by increasing speculation about North Korea's engagement in the Ukraine war. The NIS has verified the initial stages of deployment, where North Korean troops were transported aboard Russian Navy ships from October 8 to 13. These movements involved around 1,500 soldiers in the first phase, utilizing four amphibious landing ships and three escort vessels, and originated from locations near Chongjin, Hamhung, and Musudan, heading towards Vladivostok. Further details provided by the NIS indicate that these troops, including members of North Korea's el ite military units, have been stationed in various locations across Russia's Far East such as Vladivostok, Ussuriysk, Khabarovsk, and Blagoveshchensk. They have reportedly been issued Russian military uniforms and weapons and provided with fake identifications to disguise them as locals, an apparent attempt to integrate and conceal their presence within Russian forces. According to agency officials, these troops are currently undergoing adaptation training and are expected to be deployed to the front lines shortly. The deployment is part of a broader trend of intensifying military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, highlighted by a recent partnership treaty between the two nations which includes a mutual defense clause. This treaty was signed by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a summit in Pyongyang in June. The South Korean presidential office has stated that it is closely monitoring these developments in coordination with its allies and is prepared to ta ke proactive measures as necessary. The situation has also drawn attention from the international community, including the European Union, which has expressed readiness to respond, potentially with additional sanctions, to continued military support from North Korea to Russia. EU spokesperson Peter Stano emphasized that any such support to Russia's war efforts will be met with an appropriate response. The unfolding situation underscores the complexities and expanding alliances in the Ukraine conflict, potentially altering the dynamics of international military and diplomatic engagements.