North Korea is preparing to send additional troops to Russia in support of its ongoing war in Ukraine, according to a briefing by South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) revealed on Thursday. The latest deployment could occur as early as July or August, mirroring previous patterns when Russian officials visited Pyongyang shortly before troop movements.

South Korean lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun confirmed the intelligence, citing North Korea’s role in aiding Russia’s military push to reclaim control of the Kursk region.

Thousands Already Deployed

Lee stated that 11,000 North Korean personnel had already been sent to Russia in October 2024. Russia has since announced the arrival of another 4,000 troops, along with 6,000 additional construction workers to help rebuild infrastructure in the war-torn Kursk region.

Shoigu’s recent visit to North Korea and reports of new personnel selections in Pyongyang are seen as signals that fresh deployments are imminent.

Weapons and War Dead

According to NIS assessments, Pyongyang has also supplied Russia with several million artillery shells, ballistic missiles, and long-range rocket systems, delivered by both sea and air. North Korea acknowledged in April that its forces are active on the Ukrainian frontlines and confirmed the deaths of its soldiers.

"About 600 North Korean troops have been killed, and thousands more injured in Ukraine,” Lee added, citing intelligence reports.

Strategic Pact Between Moscow and Pyongyang

North Korea has emerged as a significant wartime ally of Moscow. A military agreement signed last year between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un includes a mutual defense clause, symbolizing deepening military ties.

While Pyongyang has publicly affirmed continued cooperation with Russia, it has not disclosed specifics about future deployments or arms transfers.