North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia A new phase in global warfare

The article from Foreign Policy discusses the significant implications of North Korea deploying approximately 10,000 troops to Russia amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. This move marks a notable escalation in the conflict, affecting not only the battlefield dynamics but also global geopolitical stability, particularly for South Korea and the broader international community.

Historically, North Korea has supported Russia's military efforts in Ukraine by supplying ammunition, but the deployment of combat troops represents a dramatic shift in their defense collaboration. According to experts, the North Korean troops, identified as special forces from the well-trained XI Corps, may enhance Russian military operations, particularly in areas like Kursk, where they could help counter Ukrainian advancements.

Ukraine's military leadership views this development with alarm, highlighting that North Korean troops combined with their munitions could signify an undeclared global conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for increased Western support in light of this new threat, although the response from Western allies has been tepid.

For North Korea, the deployment of troops is not merely a symbolic act but a strategic maneuver that could yield several benefits. By embedding troops in a real combat scenario, North Korea aims to gain modern warfare experience and potentially greater military support from Russia. Analysts suggest that Kim Jong Un's commitment of troops reflects a deeper investment in this alliance, with expectations of significant returns, especially given the shifting landscape of U.S. foreign policy.

The article concludes with a cautionary note about the broader ramifications of this troop deployment, suggesting that it could reshape military balances not only in Ukraine but also on the Korean Peninsula. South Korea is responding by enhancing its ties with NATO and considering shipping arms to Ukraine, which could further escalate the situation. If North Korean troops engage in combat, the consequences may extend beyond the current war, impacting regional security dynamics for years to come.