BRUSSELS: North Korea might be supporting Russia with civilian personnel instead of military troops for the conflict in Ukraine, according to a senior South Korean defense official. Vice Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho discussed these developments during an interview at a NATO defense ministers’ meeting in Brussels, providing a different perspective amid claims of North Korean soldiers being sent to aid Russia.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Vice Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho suggested the possibility that North Korea is contributing civilian personnel rather than soldiers to Russia’s military efforts. This statement comes amid ongoing speculation and recent assertions by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that North Korea is preparing to dispatch more troops to support Russia in Ukraine. Kim emphasized the need for further information to confirm the nature of North Korea’s involvement. “Whether it is personnel or troops will be determined once more information is gathered, put together and evaluated,” he
stated.
The implications of North Korea’s involvement are significant as they reflect the evolving relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow, especially after the announcement of a new bilateral treaty during a summit in June between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. This treaty, which resembles a mutual defense agreement, obligates both nations to provide military assistance swiftly in case of an armed attack.
The United States and its allies remain skeptical of Ukraine’s claims regarding North Korean troops, noting a lack of evidence. Kim also speculated that any military cooperation with Russia might be a strategic move by North Korea to secure protection and support for its regime. He remarked on the desperation reflected in North Korea’s arms trade with Russia, linking it to the stalled nuclear diplomacy with the U.S. since 2019.
During the NATO meeting, Vice Defense Minister Kim highlighted the strong interest from NATO members in the defense capabilities of the In
do-Pacific partners, including South Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. This group, known as the “IP4,” participated for the first time in the NATO defense ministerial talks, underscoring the growing military concerns among NATO countries and their interest in strengthening partnerships, particularly in areas like cybersecurity and disinformation.