As the war in Ukraine intensifies, Russia is strengthening military ties with North Korea in a move that signals a dramatic realignment of its global alliances. Pyongyang is reportedly preparing to send tens of thousands of additional troops to the front lines, and experts now describe North Korea as a more important military partner to Moscow than even Iran or China. The deepening cooperation includes arms shipments, military aid, and a symbolic show of loyalty—underscored by images of Kim Jong Un grieving fallen North Korean soldiers killed fighting for Russia.

North Korean Troops Bolster Russia’s War Effort

North Korean fighters have joined Russian units on the battlefield, particularly in the contested region of Kursk. Ukrainian and Western officials confirm that North Korean personnel have participated in combat, with plans to triple deployment to 30,000 troops. Oleg Ignatov of the International Crisis Group said North Korea now surpasses Iran and China in strategic relevance to Moscow, thanks to its steady supply of ammunition, heavy weaponry, and disciplined troops.

Despite initial limitations in modern warfare techniques, North Korean soldiers have reportedly adapted quickly to drone warfare and trench operations. Russian military sources now emphasize their professionalism and discipline in the field.

Strategic Depth For Pyongyang

The partnership has also brought critical advantages to North Korea. In return for military assistance, Russia is supplying oil, wheat, and possibly advanced weapons systems, according to analysts. The Stimson Center’s Rachel Minyoung Lee noted that this cooperation enhances Pyongyang’s global leverage, giving Kim Jong Un strategic room to navigate between China, Russia, and the West.

Lee added that the alliance reduces any incentive for North Korea to engage diplomatically with the U.S. or South Korea, and may shift regional dynamics by positioning Kim as less dependent on Beijing.

Supply Lines, Sanctions, And Secrecy

The two countries have reactivated Cold War-era transport routes along the Khasan-Tumen line to enable bilateral trade despite international sanctions. Russia now sends coal, iron ore, and fertilizers to the North, which in turn exports seafood and rare earths. Efforts are also underway to modernize North Korea’s Rajin port, with Russian assistance, to rival South Korean shipping hubs and increase cargo flow through Vladivostok.

While Moscow initially denied North Korea’s combat role, evidence has emerged of wounded DPRK soldiers treated in Russian hospitals under fake identities. Observers believe the secrecy was orchestrated by Pyongyang to align battlefield involvement with its domestic propaganda before going public.