South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has provided evidence suggesting that North Korean soldiers are being sent to Russia and may soon be deployed to the front lines in Ukraine after completing acclimatization training. The NIS reported that a top North Korean official, Kim Jeong-sik, visited the KN-23 missile launch site near the Russia-Ukraine front multiple times in early August, accompanied by military officers. The agency closely monitored North Korean military movements and recently observed ships transporting approximately 1,500 soldiers at a time to Vladivostok in Russia’s Far East.
The exact number of soldiers being sent remains unclear, but South Korean news agency Yonhap News speculates it could be up to 10,000 troops. However, this figure has not been independently verified. Photos and satellite imagery have confirmed the involvement of North Korean special forces in the Ukraine-Russia war. The transfer of troops was conducted via Russian Pacific Fleet ships, marking the first entry of the Russian naval fleet into North Korean waters since 1990.
The NIS stated that these troops were moved using landing ships and escort ships from various locations within North Korea to Vladivostok. Once there, they were issued Russian military uniforms and weapons. Large transport aircraft belonging to the Russian Air Force have also been observed traveling between Vladivostok and Pyongyang.
The NIS anticipates a second phase of transport will occur soon and believes that North Korea has been supplying ballistic missiles and other munitions to Russia as well. In response to these developments, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol held an unscheduled security meeting with key intelligence, military, and national security officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also claimed intelligence indicating that North Koreans were present in Ukraine temporarily occupied by Russian forces. He expressed concern over reports of 10,000 soldiers from North Korea preparing for combat against Ukraine.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte acknowledged concerns about support from North Korea but stated there is no evidence yet confirming their direct involvement in fighting on behalf of Russia.
Both Russia and North Korea deny engaging in arms transfers or sending military personnel for assistance purposes.