North Korea’s engagement in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has reportedly allowed the country to acquire modern military technology and battlefield experience. This information comes from Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the chief of Ukraine’s military intelligence, who noted that North Korean troops are actively participating in military operations alongside Russian forces as part of a defense agreement signed last year.
As part of this pact, North Korea is supplying both manpower and military assets to support Russia, while the Kremlin reciprocates with financial aid, advanced military training, and technological assistance. This evolving dynamic poses significant implications for security in both Europe and Asia and could potentially diminish Beijing’s influence over Pyongyang, which has traditionally served as a buffer against US-allied South Korea.
Reports indicate that North Korea sent troops to bolster Russian military efforts during the conflict, with their involvement publicly confirmed in April 2025, shortly after Russia announced its recapture of the city of Kursk from Ukrainian control. By December, casualties among North Korean forces were noted to exceed 1,000, primarily attributed to inadequate training, coordination issues, and language barriers when working alongside Russian troops. However, Budanov stated that North Korean troops have rapidly adapted to contemporary military tactics, including drone operations and counter-drone measures.
Recent intelligence from South Korea indicates that North Korea plans to dispatch additional troops, military engineers, and sappers—combat engineers tasked with mine clearance and fortification activities—within the current year.
In terms of armaments, North Korea is reportedly supplying around 40% of the Russian military’s needs for 122mm and 152mm munitions, along with various other military equipment that Russia finds challenging to produce or procure due to ongoing sanctions. North Korean hardware aiding the Russian effort includes artillery systems, ammunition, and both anti-aircraft and anti-tank missiles. There are reports that Moscow has also enhanced the performances of its less effective weapons, such as improving the accuracy of the KN-23 short-range ballistic missile.
In return for North Korea’s military support, Russia has committed substantial investment, estimated in the tens of billions of dollars, to strengthen the Hermit Kingdom’s military capabilities. This investment covers payment for military goods and services provided by North Korea. Moreover, Russia is aiding North Korea in establishing production of military hardware, including drones similar to the Shahed long-range attack drones utilized in the conflict against Ukraine.
Beyond simply acquiring battlefield experience, North Korea’s military personnel are also benefiting from Russian training in advanced combat tactics, drone operations, and air defense systems, bolstering their capabilities for future engagements.
