North Korean forces may help Putin sidestep mobilization, meeting Russia's war demands

He shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

"As of today, there are 10,000 DPRK servicemen who are joining the Russian army. This number corresponds to the monthly need of the Russian army for mobilization resources. Thus, 10,000 Koreans cover this need, which gives Russians at least a month's head start," Lakiichuk said.

According to the head of security programs at the Center for Global Studies Strategy XXI, if the number of North Korean troops increases to 30,000, the Russian army will have a three-month head start on replenishment.

"If this number grows significantly, Putin can avoid the mobilization he is so afraid of by filling his ranks with Korean soldiers. This could have a serious impact on the course of hostilities," emphasized Lakiichuk.

Military cooperation between Russia and North Korea

On October 4, the Kyiv Post reported that 20 soldiers were killed in a missile strike on occupied Donetsk, including six North Korean military personnel advising the Russian army.

The South Korean Defense Minister warned on October 8 that North Korea may deploy troops to Ukraine in support of Russia.

At an October 17 press conference in Brussels, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed Russia's plan to train 10,000 North Korean soldiers for combat in Ukraine.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Military Intelligence, later reported that 11,000 North Korean infantrymen are training in eastern Russia, preparing for deployment to Ukraine. He added that the first unit of 2,600 soldiers is en route to Kursk, where Ukraine has established a stronghold.

Ukraine has since shared intelligence with NATO about North Korea’s military involvement and requested data from alliance members.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that the participation of the North Korean military in the war against Ukraine on the side of Russia would mean a “significant escalation.” 

Later, it was reported that South Korea was considering providing Ukraine with military and intelligence assistance in response to North Korea's sending its military to fight on the side of Russia.