Defense Ministry: No signs of imminent North Korean troop deployment to Russia, but preparations continue

South Korea's Ministry of Defense has reported that while North Korea continues its preparations, there are currently no immediate signs indicating an imminent deployment of additional troops to Russia. This assessment comes in response to recent claims by Ukraine suggesting the possibility of further North Korean troop involvement.

The ministry estimates that a substantial number of casualties have been sustained by North Korean soldiers already stationed in Russia. It also indicated that deployment allowances have likely been disbursed to these troops. These deployments are believed to be part of an ongoing supply chain where North Korea provides Russia with military hardware, including artillery shells and missiles.

Intelligence suggests North Korea has supplied Russia with over 15 million 152mm artillery shells. Furthermore, the Defense Intelligence Agency assesses that North Korean missiles, such as short-range ballistic missiles, have been continuously supplied to Russia since the start of the Ukraine war. The agency noted that the accuracy and performance of these missiles may have improved due to battlefield data accumulation and potential Russian technical support.

The report also confirmed that weapon systems like the Hwasong-II tactical ballistic missile and the 600mm multiple rocket launcher, considered 'anti-South Korea' strike systems, are largely in the final stages of development. These systems are expected to offer advantages in operational flexibility, accuracy, and salvo-firing capabilities compared to older Scud-series missiles. Additionally, the military confirmed that the development of the Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile, capable of reaching Guam, is progressing towards operational deployment.