North Korea Preparing Further Troop Deployments to Russia, South Korea Says

South Korea reports that North Korea is preparing further troop deployments to Russia, although there is no sign that such a move is imminent. This assessment follows a denial from Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un, regarding claims by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy that Pyongyang planned to send up to 50,000 additional troops.

According to the South Korean Defence Ministry, North Korea has continued to supply Russia with weapons systems, including short range ballistic missiles. Estimates suggest North Korea has provided more than 15 million rounds of artillery ammunition. South Korean intelligence indicates that North Korean missiles may have improved in accuracy through Russian technical advice and battlefield data.

Additionally, the ministry noted that some North Korean ballistic missiles and rocket launchers intended for use against South Korea are nearing completion. The Hwasong 12 intermediate range ballistic missile, which can reach Guam, is being prepared for operational deployment. While intercontinental ballistic missiles can reach the U.S. mainland, key technologies like warhead re entry remain unverified. North Korea and Russia have deepened military cooperation since 2022, despite previous denials of arms transfers from Moscow and Pyongyang.