[Editorial] Alarming prospect of more North Korean troops for Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has alleged that Russia is seeking to acquire an additional 30,000 troops from North Korea, signaling deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang. Zelenskyy stated on July 25 that preparations for receiving these troops have been ongoing in Russia's Voronezh region since June.

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Russia wants to receive another 30,000 troops from North Korea.

This potential deployment, if confirmed, would follow an initial troop transfer in 2024. Such a move could significantly bolster the Russia-North Korea alliance, raising serious concerns for South Korea's national security. The report suggests that North Korea might receive advanced military technology in return, posing a direct threat to the region.

Zelenskyy's warning appears to be a preemptive measure aimed at deterring further troop deployments and rallying international support, particularly from countries like South Korea and Japan, which are within range of North Korean missiles. He also claimed that Russia is actively assisting North Korea in improving its weaponry and gaining combat experience.

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Since June, preparations have been underway in Russia’s Voronezh region to receive them.

The alleged request comes at a time when Russia is reportedly facing severe troop shortages. According to the US-based Center for Strategic and International Studies, Russia has suffered approximately 1.4 million casualties, including 450,000 deaths, since the war in Ukraine began. Russia is also grappling with economic difficulties exacerbated by Ukrainian drone attacks on key industrial facilities.

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Russia is helping North Korea learn how to wage war, improve its weapons, and gain real combat experience in using them. All of this is a threat to everyone in Asia who is within range of North Korean missiles.

In response to these challenges, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui in Moscow on July 19, assuring that North Korea's continued support would not be forgotten. The report speculates that details of a potential second troop deployment may have been discussed during subsequent strategic talks between Russian and North Korean diplomats. South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun had previously assured Ukraine of continued humanitarian support.

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North Korea’s continued help “would not be forgotten.”