In response to a query by Ha Tae-kyung, a lawmaker from the People Power Party, on whether South Korea has made Russia aware of its intention to retaliate if the latter transfers missile or weaponry technology to North Korea, Foreign Minister Park Jin said, “Yes, we have conveyed such sentiments to Russia.”
During the session, Ha inquired about the content briefed to South Korea following the North Korea-Russia summit. Minister Park commented that both nations discussed various matters for the enhancement of bilateral ties, adding, “There were no specific details on military cooperation.” Further, when asked whether Russia has committed to supplying the weaponry or missile technology that North Korea has demanded, Park mentioned, “We requested clarification on this from Russia.”
Minister Park refrained from delving into details concerning evidence of North Korea’s arms supplies to Russia, labeling it as “classified information.” However, he emphasized that the government is vigilantly monitoring the situation through various intelligence sources and has a reasonable understanding of current developments.
Recent reports have emerged indicating North Korea’s provision of arms for Russia’s engagement in the Ukraine conflict. The Radio Free Asia (RFA) cited the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) on Oct. 25, suggesting that “North Korea might have supplied between 300,000 to 500,000 rounds of artillery to Russia.” According to the ISW report, Russia, which is at war with Ukraine, utilizes approximately 10,000 rounds daily. The ammunition provided by North Korea could sustain Russia for over a month.
The Washington Post also reported on Oct. 16 that there’s evidence suggesting covert shipments of North Korean ammunition to Russia since mid-August, a month prior to the North Korea-Russia summit.
Based on these revelations, both South Korean and U.S. authorities have ascertained that North Korea has indeed supplied arms for use in the Ukraine battlefield. Concerns are mounting that while North Korea supports Russia, the latter could reciprocally assist in advancing North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities. The South Korean government has repeatedly clarified that any military transaction between North Korea and Russia that directly jeopardizes South Korea’s security will not be overlooked.