South Korea’s Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back expressed concerns about increasing security instability around the Korean Peninsula due to enhanced military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Ahn highlighted North Korea’s advancements in nuclear and missile capabilities, along with the modernization of its conventional forces through collaboration with Russia, labeling it a significant challenge for both the peninsula and the global community.
Ahn emphasized the gravity of the cooperation between North Korea and Russia, stating that South Korea’s intelligence agency estimated around 15,000 North Korean troops deployed to Russia to support its conflict with Ukraine. This deployment was expected to provide North Korea access to advanced Russian military technologies. Last week, North Korea’s state media released images of leader Kim Jong-un inspecting a facility involved in constructing an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine.
Addressing the security challenges faced, Ahn called for continued joint efforts between South Korea and the United States grounded in mutual trust and understanding. Additionally, South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun reiterated the government’s commitment to establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue with North Korea and other relevant nations. Cho stressed the importance of implementing agreements swiftly and effectively, while also emphasizing the need to strengthen deterrence alongside diplomatic initiatives.
