SEOUL – South Korea’s military reported on Thursday that North Korea has sent an additional 3,000 soldiers to Russia this year, continuing to supply missiles, artillery, and ammunition to assist Moscow in its conflict with Ukraine.
North Korea and Russia have strengthened their alliance since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Seoul’s military sources indicate that the troops joined an estimated 11,000 North Korean soldiers already in Russia.
The soldiers reportedly arrived in Russia during January and February of this year.
Pyongyang’s support for Moscow includes the continuous shipment of military supplies, according to South Korea’s intelligence.
The relationship between Russia and North Korea has been described by South Korea as increasingly cooperative since the conflict in Ukraine began.
South Korean officials accuse North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, of aligning with Russia against Ukraine.
The South Korean military continues to monitor the situation closely, citing concerns over regional security dynamics.
North Korea has not officially confirmed the deployment of additional troops or the ongoing military support to Russia.
