Recently, the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia has emerged as a significant issue in the international arena. The White House has assessed that North Korea has moved approximately 3,000 troops to eastern Russia, and these troops may potentially be involved on the Ukrainian front. This matter draws considerable attention to the strengthening of the strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea, as well as North Korea's role in the war in Ukraine.
The Role of North Korean Troops in the Ukrainian War: What Impact Will It Have?
Background of the North Korean Troop Deployment
The relationship between North Korea and Russia has been further solidified through the cooperation of Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. According to the 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement' signed in June 2023 in Pyongyang, it was agreed that if one country is subjected to armed invasion, the other country would provide military support. Based on this agreement, North Korean troops have been deployed to support Russia in the war in Ukraine, and these forces are expected to move to the western front after completing their training in eastern Russia.
Movement of North Korean Troops to Western Russia and Combat Participation
John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokesperson, mentioned that North Korean troops moved to eastern Russia in early to mid-October and may participate in combat against Ukraine after completing their training. Ukrainian forces have already detected that around 2,000 North Korean troops are moving toward the western front, with expectations that they will head to Kursk and Rostov regions.
Purpose of the North Korean Troop Deployment and Its Compensation
Experts analyze that Kim Jong-un is likely to demand advanced military technology from Russia in exchange for military support. Historically, North Korea has used diplomatic means to address issues related to food and fuel, and this troop deployment may serve as a strategic goal to obtain crucial military technology from Putin.
Impact of North Korean Troop Participation on the Ukrainian Front
Many experts believe that the participation of North Korean troops is unlikely to be a 'game changer' in the war in Ukraine. Professor Min Jeong-hoon has assessed that the involvement of North Korean troops will not significantly increase the chances of U.S. intervention in the war. Additionally, it is expected that the U.S. will adjust its response levels based on the role of North Korean forces.
Ukraine's Psychological Warfare Strategy
Ukraine has initiated psychological warfare to encourage the defection of North Korean troops. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has urged North Korean soldiers to surrender, promising shelter and food to those who do. A promotional video produced in Korean has been posted on Ukraine's 'I Want to Live' Telegram channel, introducing the facilities and benefits that captured North Korean troops would receive upon surrender.
