How Ukraine war is boosting Kim Jong Un’s army
Photo: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (Getty Images)
The war in Ukraine has given North Korea a unique opportunity to modernize its army and gain valuable combat experience through close cooperation with Russia, according to The New York Times.
Indeed, the war in Ukraine has opened up unexpected opportunities for North Korea to rebuild its military. Despite international sanctions, the pandemic, and a shortage of resources, Kim Jong Un has managed to acquire modern weapons and important battlefield experience.
Cooperation with Russia has created new opportunities for North Korea
At a certain point, Russia faced a severe shortage of artillery shells, missiles, and manpower on the front line, and North Korea was able to assist in these areas.
In addition, North Korea has shared military technology and expertise, which has helped strengthen Russia’s defense capabilities. As a result, the DPRK has begun to reap the benefits of this cooperation.
New weapons and combat experience
North Korea has provided Russia with weapons and military personnel. Most importantly, DPRK troops have had the opportunity to test their weapons in real combat. North Korean soldiers have gained valuable experience that their southern neighbors lack. This has made their army stronger and more combat-ready.
Revival of North Korea’s military industry
Analysts in South Korea have also noted that North Korea’s military industry is now experiencing a revival. Indeed, with Russia’s growing demand for artillery shells and missiles, factories in the DPRK have ramped up production. This has contributed to the development of new technologies and the strengthening of North Korea’s armed forces.
Kim Jong Un is in control
Kim Jong Un has begun regularly visiting weapons production plants. This indicates that he is personally overseeing the army’s modernization process. The war in Ukraine has given him an opportunity to strengthen the country’s military power, and the DPRK leader is actively taking advantage of it.
What threats this poses to the world
Such military buildup by the DPRK poses additional challenges to global security. The risk of escalation on the Korean Peninsula — and globally — is growing. Experts are urging close monitoring of the situation and preparations for potential threats.
As a reminder, North Korea may have supplied Russia with up to 9 million artillery shells and at least 100 missiles in the past year and a half.
This has raised concerns around the world. It is no surprise that French President Emmanuel Macron has warned China that NATO may boost its military presence in Asia if Beijing does not take stronger steps to stop North Korea’s involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine.
