Underground war: what threat DPRK engineer brigades pose at front in Ukraine

He shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

"There is information that five engineering brigades may be coming here from North Korea. How are they dangerous? During the Korean War, tunnel warfare was used very actively. It was a Korean invention, where underground engineering brigades dug barracks and control centers for themselves at a depth of 80-100 meters, making them absolutely safe from American air raids. They also dug tunnels through which they entered the enemy's rear. This is a tactic the Russians have now used in Toretsk, particularly during their last offensive campaign, and previously in Avdiivka," noted Checherynda.

According to him, the North Koreans can apply this experience to the Russian-Ukrainian war, which would pose a lot of threat.

"We can read about the war between North and South Korea and the use of these underground tunnels to break through to the enemy's rear. Unfortunately, the Koreans have experience in this area, and Ukrainian Defense Forces must take this into account to prevent such operations on Ukrainian territory," he said.

The DPRK army consists of 1.2 million personnel, the serviceman noted: "Perhaps they will build something for the main forces. However, the appearance of North Koreans in the Ukrainian war is definitely a violation of international norms and standards. The size of the DPRK army is 1.2 million, which is a considerable force. The world community should take this into account."

• On June 19, Vladimir Putin visited the DPRK at the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement that provides for mutual assistance in the event of an attack on one of the signatories. At the same time, the DPRK leader expressed "unconditional support" for Russia in the war with Ukraine.
• Later, the North Korean state agency published the clauses of the agreement between Russia and the DPRK on a comprehensive strategic partnership. In particular, it refers to cooperation in warfare, science, and economy.
• On June 20, Vladimir Putin said that South Korea would face decisions that Seoul would not like if it supplied Ukraine with lethal weapons.
• In addition, Defense Express military expert Ivan Kyrychevskyi believes that North Korea may resort to sending its expeditionary corps to participate in the war on the side of Russia.
• Recently, Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder said that North Korean troops would become "cannon fodder" if sent to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.
• On July 2, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that it had no confirmation of the DPRK's sending troops to Russia.