South Korea has issued a stern warning in response to Russia’s move to ratify a significant defense treaty with North Korea. The treaty, aimed at ensuring mutual assistance during aggression, was unanimously approved by Russia’s lower house of parliament and will proceed to the upper house for confirmation. South Korean intelligence suggests that thousands of North Korean soldiers are currently undergoing training in Russia and may soon be deployed to the front lines in Ukraine, with additional troops expected by December.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stated that Seoul will not “sit idle” if North Korea sends troops to support Moscow in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, labeling the troop deployment as a provocation that poses a global security threat. Despite long-standing reluctance to supply arms to Ukraine, South Korea may reconsider its stance in light of North Korea’s actions, with Yoon emphasizing that the country will take “necessary actions in cooperation with the international community.”
Relations between North Korea and Russia have strengthened since Russia’s 2022 military offensive in Ukraine. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed his admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, South Korea continues to bolster its defense ties with Poland, a key ally of Ukraine, having sold significant military equipment to the country.
During Polish President Andrzej Duda’s visit to South Korea, both nations discussed enhancing defense cooperation and support for Ukraine, including plans for a second contract for South Korean K2 tanks. The meeting coincided with provocative acts from North Korea, including a balloon carrying propaganda that landed near Seoul’s presidential compound, further escalating tensions in the region.