South Korea has accused Russia of supplying advanced air defence missiles to North Korea in return for the deployment of North Korean troops in support of Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Shin Wonsik, South Korea’s national security adviser, disclosed these claims on Friday during an interview with SBS TV.
The allegations centre on the transfer of military equipment, including air defence systems, which South Korea believes Russia provided to bolster Pyongyang’s defences. This exchange reportedly comes amid North Korea’s contribution of over 10,000 troops to Russia, with some troops now actively engaged in combat operations, according to South Korean and U.S. officials.
Strengthening Pyongyang’s Defences
Observers suggest North Korea is seeking to fortify its air defence capabilities around its capital. This development follows accusations made by North Korea in October, claiming that South Korean drones had dropped propaganda leaflets over Pyongyang. The North threatened military retaliation over such activities, although South Korea has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in the alleged drone flights.
Beyond air defence systems, Shin revealed that Russia has also provided North Korea with military technologies, including support for the development of a space-based surveillance system. This assistance builds on prior promises made by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a 2023 summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, where Moscow offered to assist in satellite development.
North Korea successfully launched its first spy satellite in November 2023, but its utility for military purposes remains uncertain. An attempt to launch a second satellite in May 2024 ended in failure.
Concerns Over Technology Transfers
South Korea and the United States have voiced apprehension about the potential transfer of sensitive missile and nuclear technologies from Russia to North Korea. While Shin refrained from confirming whether such exchanges have occurred, experts believe that advanced technological transfers are unlikely at this stage of North Korea’s military support for Russia.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) reported to lawmakers this week that North Korea had also sent artillery systems to Russia. This follows earlier revelations that North Korea had delivered over 13,000 containers of artillery shells, missiles, and other conventional weapons to Russia since August 2023, aiding Moscow’s attempts to replenish its dwindling weapon stockpiles.
Expanding Bilateral Cooperation
North Korea and Russia have recently expanded their economic cooperation, as highlighted by high-level talks held in Pyongyang earlier this week. According to state-run media from both countries, new agreements were reached to strengthen ties further, reflecting a deepening partnership amid their growing isolation from much of the international community.
The economic support from Russia is seen as vital for North Korea, which has faced years of crippling sanctions and economic difficulties. In addition to military aid, Russia is believed to be providing economic assistance to the North, helping sustain the regime in Pyongyang while Moscow benefits from increased military contributions to its war effort in Ukraine.
