Asger Risom
North Korea could deploy additional forces to support Russia’s war effort in Ukraine as early as July or August, according to South Korean intelligence assessments shared Thursday with lawmakers.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) believes Moscow may be preparing a major offensive in the coming weeks.
“The timeline for additional troop deployment is July or August,” lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun told reporters after a closed-door briefing.
He noted that Pyongyang appears to be responding to a recent high-level Russian visit, aimed at deepening bilateral defense ties.
A Growing Military Exchange
In return for artillery and missile supplies to Russia, North Korea is likely receiving technical assistance with satellite launches and missile guidance systems, according to the NIS.
This cooperation has intensified since a mutual defense pact was signed between the two countries last June.
Both nations have begun acknowledging North Korea’s military presence in Russia, particularly during recent fighting near the Russian border region of Kursk.
That area had briefly fallen under Ukrainian control during a counteroffensive.
Escalation Risks and Intelligence Warnings
The intelligence report underlines growing concerns over North Korea’s evolving role in the Ukraine conflict.
After months of silence, both Pyongyang and Moscow are now more openly embracing their strategic partnership, including military collaboration on the battlefield.
Seoul’s warning comes amid broader fears that such alliances could complicate international responses and increase the stakes of the ongoing war.
As reported by Digi24, South Korean officials are urging continued vigilance as Russia and North Korea deepen ties under the framework of their defense treaty.
