South Korea Investigates Reports of North Korean Troops Aiding Russia in War Against Ukraine

South Korea is closely monitoring reports of North Korea allegedly sending military personnel to support Russia in its war against Ukraine. The South Korean government is currently verifying these claims.

According to Yonhap, the South Korean Ministry of Defense stated, “We are closely watching the situation, as there is a possibility that North Korea may deploy military personnel or civilians.”

South Korean intelligence is also investigating the reports, acknowledging that the formation of a specialized battalion composed of North Korean forces by Russia “may be credible.” Officials have confirmed they are working with Ukraine to verify the authenticity of these claims.

In addition to the Defense Ministry’s response, South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “deep concern” over the potential escalation in cooperation between North Korea and Russia, which may go beyond arms trade and involve troop deployment.

“Any cooperation that indirectly or directly strengthens North Korea’s military capabilities is a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. We reiterate our call for an end to illegal military cooperation between Russia and North Korea,” a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

On October 8, South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun noted that North Korea might send regular troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine. Previously, North Korean “advisors” had been reported in occupied areas, with six North Korean officers reportedly killed near Donetsk.

Earlier reports indicated that Russia is forming a special battalion of approximately 3,000 North Korean citizens, designated as the “Buryat” battalion, to participate in combat operations against Ukraine.

However, recent information has emerged that 18 North Korean soldiers have fled from their positions near the border between the Bryansk and Kursk regions, just 7 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. The motives for their escape remain unclear, and the Russian military has initiated searches while attempting to keep this information from higher command.

On October 14, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has referenced intelligence reports indicating North Korea’s de facto involvement in the ongoing war, after reports have emerged indicating that more than 20 soldiers were killed near Donetsk due to a missile strike on October 3, including six North Korean officers.