North Korea Dispatches 12,000 Troops to Assist Russia in Ukraine Conflict, Raising Global Tensions

In a development that could escalate tensions in the region, South Korean intelligence has reported that North Korea has dispatched 12,000 troops, including special operation forces, to support Russia's war against Ukraine. The troops have reportedly left the country and formed into four brigades. This would mark North Korea's first significant involvement in a foreign conflict, despite having one of the largest military forces in the world, with 1.2 million troops.

North Korean Troops Stationed in Russia

According to the National Intelligence Service (NIS), the North Korean troops deployed to Russia are currently stationed in military bases across the country's Far East. They are expected to be "deployed to front lines" in Ukraine after undergoing training. However, many experts are skeptical about the effectiveness of the North Korean troop dispatch, citing North Korea's outdated equipment and lack of battlefield experience. It is believed that North Korea may have received security support from Russia in exchange for the troop deployment, in light of North Korea's ongoing nuclear program.

In June, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a pact outlining mutual military assistance in the event of an attack on either country. This agreement is considered the two nations' most significant defense deal since the end of the Cold War. Although the NIS has not confirmed the report of North Korean troop deployment, South Korea's presidential office has expressed concerns about the potential security threat posed by the deployment. President Yoon Suk Yeol convened an emergency meeting to discuss the situation, emphasizing the grave implications for South Korea and the international community.

Russia has denied the utilization of North Korean troops in the conflict. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the claims as "another piece of fake news" during a recent press conference. On the other hand, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asserted that his government has intelligence indicating that 10,000 troops from North Korea are being prepared to join Russian forces in Ukraine. He warned that the involvement of a third country could escalate the conflict into a "world war."

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that while there is no evidence of North Korean soldiers actively participating in the fighting, North Korea's support to Russia through arms supplies, technology, and innovation is a cause for concern. The U.S., South Korea, and their allies have accused North Korea of supplying artillery shells, missiles, and other equipment to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine. In return, it is believed that North Korea may have received food, economic aid, and technological assistance to enhance its military capabilities.