Recent reports suggest that North Korean soldiers may be preparing to move to the front lines of Russia's war against Ukraine. South Korean lawmakers revealed that about 10,000 North Korean soldiers are currently undergoing military training in eastern Russia, where they are being taught basic Russian commands.
The South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) is closely monitoring the situation for any signs of North Korean personnel, including high-ranking military officials, being deployed to the front lines. The soldiers are reportedly learning around 100 basic military words in Russian, but communication challenges are evident.
To maintain secrecy, North Korea has implemented strict security measures, including banning officers involved in the Russian effort from using phones and informing families that their loved ones are participating in a routine military exercise.
Despite efforts to keep the deployments confidential, word has spread within North Korea, causing unrest among residents and soldiers who fear being sent to Russia. Intercepted Russian transmissions revealed derogatory remarks about the North Korean soldiers, with plans for interpreter and officer ratios sparking concerns among Russian servicemen.
This potential deployment marks a significant move for North Korea in an international conflict, as the country's military, though large, lacks combat experience. While initially denying the allegations, President Vladimir Putin did not confirm or deny the presence of North Korean troops at a recent summit.
North Korea's Foreign Minister is currently in Russia, likely discussing further troop dispatch and potential benefits for Pyongyang. Meanwhile, South Korea's foreign and defense ministers are heading to Washington for discussions with U.S. counterparts amid these escalating developments.
