North Korea’s Military Support for Russia in the Ukraine War: A Detailed Analysis
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seen unexpected alliances and military support networks emerge. One of the most surprising developments is the reported military assistance provided by North Korea to Russia. While both nations deny the claims, Western and Ukrainian intelligence sources, along with expert analysis, paint a picture of substantial North Korean involvement, encompassing the supply of weapons, ammunition, and even troops. This support, although shrouded in secrecy, is believed to play a significant role in bolstering Russia’s capabilities and potentially influencing the trajectory of the conflict.
Reports suggest that North Korea has provided Russia with a vast amount of artillery ammunition, including millions of shells and over 100 short-range missiles. Specifically, Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, claims that North Korea has delivered approximately 120 M1989 Koksan 170mm self-propelled artillery guns and an equal number of M-1991 240mm multiple rocket launchers in the past three months. These weapons systems, according to Budanov, offer significant firepower and pose considerable challenges for Ukrainian forces at the front lines. Furthermore, he anticipates continued supply of these weapons from North Korea, citing their ample stockpiles.
Beyond artillery, North Korea is also alleged to have supplied Russia with KN-23 short-range ballistic missiles. These missiles, reportedly launched from the Russian regions of Kursk and Bryansk bordering Ukraine, add another dimension to Russia’s offensive capabilities. Budanov estimates that 148 such missiles were delivered in 2024 and projects an additional 150 in 2025. This consistent flow of missiles could significantly alter the battlefield dynamics, especially considering the ongoing artillery duels and Russia’s need to maintain offensive pressure.
Adding to the matériel support, North Korean troops are also reported to be present in the conflict zone. An estimated 11,000 North Korean soldiers are believed to be deployed in the Kursk region, likely bolstering Russian defenses and potentially participating in offensive operations. Budanov’s assessment, however, portrays these troops as "biological robots," suggesting limited combat effectiveness and a focus on sheer numbers rather than tactical prowess. He also notes a substantial casualty rate, indicating their involvement in intense fighting.
The impact of North Korean military assistance on the conflict is a subject of debate. Military expert Jörgen Elfving acknowledges the benefit of the artillery ammunition for the Russian side, but questions the quality of the supplied weaponry. He points to reports of inconsistent propellant charges in the artillery shells, causing malfunctions and premature detonations. Similarly, the missiles are reported to lack precision, with some exploding shortly after launch. These quality control issues raise concerns about the reliability and effectiveness of the North Korean arsenal.
While the artillery pieces, especially the 170mm caliber which Russia lacks in its own inventory, are considered beneficial for countering Ukrainian artillery, their effectiveness is hampered by the ammunition supply chain challenges. The impact of the multiple rocket launchers is less clear, given Russia’s existing substantial arsenal of similar systems. The true strategic value of the North Korean contribution, therefore, remains shrouded in uncertainty, complicated by the lack of transparency and official confirmation from both nations.
The clandestine nature of this military alliance between North Korea and Russia raises several important considerations. The lack of official acknowledgment makes it difficult to assess the true extent and impact of the support. Furthermore, the transfer of weapons and deployment of troops potentially violate international sanctions imposed on North Korea, adding another layer of complexity to the geopolitical situation. The continued flow of North Korean military equipment and personnel into the conflict zone underscores the evolving dynamics of the war and the lengths to which both Russia and North Korea are willing to go to achieve their respective objectives. The long-term implications of this burgeoning military partnership, however, remain to be seen.
