S. Korea to Implement ‘Phased Measures’ Against N. Korea-Russia Military Collaboration

SEOUL: South Korea announced plans to take "phased measures" in response to growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, urging North Korea to withdraw its troops from Russia immediately. The National Security Council met to evaluate the situation following reports of North Korean troop deployments to assist Russia. According to Yonhap News Agency, the National Intelligence Service has revealed that North Korea plans to send around 12,000 troops to Russia, with approximately 1,500 already stationed in Russia's Far East. The development has prompted South Korean officials to consider deploying personnel to Ukraine to monitor the presence of North Korean troops supporting Russia. President Yoon Suk Yeol addressed concerns raised by Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling People Power Party, about the influence of officials close to First Lady Kim Keon Hee on state affairs. During a meeting, Yoon stated he would consider appropriate measures once Han identifies "who is causing what problems." In a related economic development, Hyundai Motor Co.'s Indian subsidiary marked its debut on the Indian stock market, marking the first overseas listing for the South Korean automotive giant. A ceremony was held at the National Stock Exchange in Mumbai, attended by Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Group executive chair, and other senior executives.