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North Korea Sends Special Forces to Russia for Ukraine Conflict
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has reported that North Korea has transferred around 1,500 of its special forces to eastern Russia, with plans to deploy them in Russia’s war against Ukraine. This marks a significant development in North Korea’s involvement in the ongoing conflict, as these elite troops are currently training in Russia ahead of their deployment to the front lines.
North Korean Forces Transferred to Russia
According to the NIS, between October 8 and 13, seven ships from Russia’s Pacific Fleet transported the North Korean forces from cities like Chongjin, Hamhung, and Musudan in North Korea to Vladivostok, Russia. This initial batch of military personnel is stationed in multiple locations, including Vladivostok, Ussuriysk, Khabarovsk, and Blagoveshchensk. The Russian military has provided these soldiers with Russian uniforms, weapons, and false identification papers, identifying them as residents of Sakha and Buryatia republics.
Satellite Evidence and Further Deployments
Satellite images released by the NIS on October 16 show Russian transport ships near North Korean shores, with approximately 640 North Korean soldiers gathering at Russian military facilities in Ussuriysk and Khabarovsk. The NIS further revealed that North Korea plans to send a second wave of military personnel to Russia soon. In addition, North Korea has reportedly committed to sending four brigades, totaling 12,000 soldiers, to support Russia’s efforts in Ukraine.
North Korean Troops to Join Ukraine War by November
Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, confirmed that nearly 11,000 North Korean infantry troops are currently training in eastern Russia and will be ready to join the fighting in Ukraine by November 1. Budanov also mentioned that the first group of 2,600 North Korean soldiers is expected to be deployed to Russia’s Kursk Oblast, though the final locations for the remaining troops remain unclear.
This development indicates an escalating level of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as the war in Ukraine continues, with North Korean forces poised to play a significant role in supporting Russian operations. The involvement of foreign troops could further complicate the conflict, drawing international attention to the growing alliances in the region.
