South Korea Accuses North Korean Troops of Fighting in Ukraine

This week, the South Korean government made a significant accusation, claiming that North Korean troops are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.

Accusations by Seoul's Defense Minister

Kim Yong-hyun, Seoul's defense minister, made these claims on Tuesday. He stated there is reason to believe that six North Korean officers were killed in Donetsk due to a Ukrainian missile strike on October 3rd. He referred to reports that initially appeared in Ukrainian media as "highly likely." In a briefing with South Korean political leaders, the defense minister said, "We assess that the occurrence of casualties among North Korean officers and soldiers in Ukraine is highly likely, considering various circumstances." He further noted, "The issue of deploying regular troops is highly likely due to the mutual agreements that resemble a military alliance between Russia and North Korea."

Expectations of More North Korean Troops in Conflict

Seoul anticipates that more North Korean troops will be sent to the conflict. This accusation, which lacks concrete evidence, follows months of official US allegations that North Korea has been sending arms and ammunition to Russia by train. While it's evident that Moscow and Pyongyang are strengthening their ties, including militarily, both sides have denied North Korean involvement in Ukraine. There have been several exchanges of defense delegations, and Kim has visited Russia, and Putin even made a very rare visit to Pyongyang in June. The two leaders signed a mutual defense agreement this past summer.

Reports of North Korean Officer Deaths

Ukrainian and US media initially reported the claims of North Korean officer deaths as follows: Approximately 20 military personnel, including six North Korean military officers, were killed in a Ukrainian missile strike on Russian-occupied territory near the city of Donetsk, according to a Ukrainian news agency. Interfax-Ukraine, citing sources in Ukraine’s military intelligence, reported that three North Korean servicemen were also wounded. The Kyiv Post reported that the attack occurred on Thursday, citing intelligence sources. Interfax-Ukraine, in its report on Friday, cited Russian bloggers as saying that North Korean military officers were visiting the front as part of an "exchange of experience" program. The Ukrainian news agency added that the North Korean military was shown how the Russians were “preparing for assault actions, for defense,” when “a missile strike was launched on the training ground.” If these reports are accurate, it would signify a major escalation of North Korea's involvement. Seoul has warned that "More North Korean troops could be deployed in the war."

Implications for the West

The West may not be able to do much in response, as it has already imposed maximum sanctions on both Russia and North Korea. This could be another alarming indication that the war in Ukraine is becoming increasingly internationalized.

Bottom Line

The allegations made by South Korea regarding North Korea's involvement in the Ukraine conflict, if true, could signify a significant escalation and further internationalization of the war. However, these claims lack concrete evidence and both Russia and North Korea have denied them. What are your thoughts on this matter? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.