In recent hours, various local media outlets have reported that the South Korean government is considering sending a team of military advisors to Ukraine to monitor the presence and activities of North Korean troops that will be deployed in support of Russia during the conflict. This initiative would not only take another step in Beijing’s efforts to continue and expand the scope of support to Ukraine but also unlock new types of direct assistance for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
According to South Korean intelligence reports, a contingent of approximately 1,500 North Korean troops is expected to arrive in the Kursk region in the coming weeks, with the possibility of increasing that number to 12,000. These troops sent by the Pyongyang regime would play roles in supervising special operations tactics and the combat capabilities of Russian military forces. Additionally, unconfirmed reports have emerged about the possible arrival of North Korean pilots in Russia. It is speculated that they are being trained to operate Russian fighter jets, such as the Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot attack aircraft.
As for the team of military advisors that could be sent by Seoul, they could serve to monitor operations in which North Korean troops participate and provide assistance in interrogations if some of these troops were captured by Ukrainian forces.
So far, South Korea has limited itself to providing humanitarian aid and diplomatic support to Ukraine, avoiding the delivery of weapons. However, North Korea’s growing involvement could lead to a shift in South Korea’s stance, opening the possibility of directly supplying artillery to Ukraine. Among the systems that could be considered are the K9 self-propelled howitzers, K2 battle tanks, and Chunmoo rocket launchers, all South Korean-made.
This situation could generate additional tensions, as last June, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that any attempt by South Korea to supply weapons to Ukraine would be considered a grave mistake and could trigger negative consequences for Seoul.
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