As North Korean military officials increase their visits to Russia, intelligence suggests ongoing preparations for additional troop deployments. Reports indicate that over 10,000 North Korean soldiers are currently stationed near the Russia-Ukraine border, performing security duties.
Lee Sung-kwon, a member of the opposition and the National Assembly’s Intelligence Committee, disclosed this information during a National Assembly audit of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) on Tuesday.
Lee reported that as North Korea and Russia seek to strengthen their long-term alliance, visits by military officials to Russia have become more frequent. He added that the NIS is closely monitoring potential transfers of sensitive technologies to Russia.
The lawmaker emphasized that North Korea is capitalizing on the favorable strategic environment created by its troop deployments to Russia and Kim Jong Un’s visit to China. Pyongyang is focusing on solidifying its relationships with Russia and China while expanding its foreign relations, particularly with Global South nations. The NIS also reported that North Korea is contemplating ways to further elevate Kim’s cult of personality ahead of the 9th Party Congress.
Lee elaborated that the 10,000 North Korean troops are currently forward-deployed near the Russia-Ukraine border for security duties. An additional 1,000 engineers have been dispatched for mine clearance operations. Approximately 5,000 construction troops have been gradually moving to Russia since September and are expected to assist with infrastructure recovery efforts.
The NIS is closely monitoring ongoing training and recruitment activities within North Korea, which suggest preparations for further troop deployments.
Regarding North Korea’s relationship with China, Lee reported that high-level exchanges continue to drive the normalization of relations. This includes the recent visit of a Chinese premier, the first in 16 years, following the North Korea-China summit in September.
Lee mentioned that the new Yalu River Bridge is expected to open by year’s end, noting considerable anticipation within North Korea due to rumors about potential civilian goods support.
He concluded by stating that this friendly atmosphere is reflected in bilateral trade, with North Korea’s trade volume with China in September increasing by nearly 50% compared to August.