This photo, carried by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency on June 19, 2024, shows the North’s leader Kim Jong-un (R) greeting Russian President Vladimir Putin, who arrived in Pyongyang for a state visit. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 27 (Korea Bizwire) — North Korea’s recent military deployment to support Russia in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war represents more than just a troop commitment—it marks the first tangible implementation of the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement signed between North Korea and Russia in June.
The agreement, which includes provisions for military assistance in times of war, indicates that the two nations may now be regarded as de facto allies.
This partnership is poised to benefit North Korea significantly, as it likely seeks military technology transfers from Russia. Kim Jong-un’s “five major strategic weapons” initiative—aimed at advancing military capabilities—includes the development of military reconnaissance satellites, solid-fuel ICBMs, nuclear-powered submarines (SSBNs), hypersonic missiles, and the miniaturization of nuclear weapons.
With Russia’s assistance, North Korea could come closer to achieving these goals.
The implications for the Korean Peninsula are concerning. North Korea, already a de facto nuclear power, could soon possess advanced delivery systems for its nuclear arsenal, significantly increasing regional instability. The deployment also offers North Korean troops valuable combat experience in modern warfare.
Russia has reportedly already provided North Korea with some military satellite technology. Should North Korea gain full access to Russia’s reconnaissance satellite capabilities, it would be able to closely monitor strategic assets in South Korea, U.S. military positions in the region, and other vital military activities, potentially altering the balance of power in the region.
The transfer of military technology has also extended to ballistic missile development. North Korea’s recent test of the new Hwasong-19 ICBM is believed to be influenced by Russian designs, including components similar to Russia’s RS-28 Sarmat missile.
As North Korea advances its ICBM and MIRV (multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle) capabilities, it could pose a significant challenge to U.S. missile defense systems.
Moreover, Russia is expected to help North Korea develop nuclear-powered submarines capable of launching submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), which could extend the threat beyond the Korean Peninsula to targets as far as Hawaii and Guam.
North Korea’s hypersonic missile program, already in an advanced stage, could also benefit from Russian assistance. During Kim Jong-un’s visit to Russia last year, he observed Russia’s hypersonic missile technology, particularly the “Kinzhal” missile, which could potentially be adapted for North Korea’s own nuclear strike capabilities.
In addition to technological transfers, the deployment of North Korean forces to Russia offers an opportunity for practical military training. North Korean soldiers are reportedly undergoing basic infantry training, including artillery, drones, and trench warfare, which could enhance their operational effectiveness.
This deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea raises the stakes for regional security, with the potential to disrupt the strategic balance in Northeast Asia.
Experts warn that if North Korea gains access to Russia’s advanced military technologies, it could significantly complicate security dynamics in the region, especially in light of ongoing tensions between North Korea, South Korea, and the United States.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
