Key points
- South Korean intelligence predicts a possible new deployment of North Korean troops to Russia in July or August 2025 to participate in the war against Ukraine.
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North Korea has already transferred about 10,000 soldiers to Russia, some of whom suffered losses in combat, and continues to supply weapons, receiving technical advice from Russia in return.
North Korea is likely preparing a new batch of troops to fight in Russia's war against Ukraine. South Korean intelligence estimates that the deployment could happen as early as July or August 2025.
This was reported by Channel 24, citing Reuters.
Intelligence has indicated the timing of the new transfer of soldiers
According to South Korean lawmaker Lee Son-gwon, the country's National Intelligence Service (NIS) has warned of a possible re-deployment of North Korean troops. The plan is July or August 2025. This became known after a closed briefing with representatives of the intelligence service. These actions are likely related to Russia's plans for a new large-scale offensive in Ukraine, which the Kremlin could launch within the same time frame.
North Korea has already deployed about 10,000 soldiers to Russia. Half of them, according to NIS, were killed or wounded during the fighting, particularly in the Kursk region, where Russia was trying to maintain control over border areas. The exact number of troops in the ranks of the occupation forces is currently unknown, but intelligence is recording the training of new units.
Pyongyang continues to supply Russia with artillery shells, missiles and other weapons. But the Kremlin is likely providing North Korea with technical advice on satellite launches and missile systems. This cooperation is based on a treaty that the two leaders signed in 2024 that includes a clause on mutual defense and strategic assistance.
