Russia helping North Korea build submarines, says Seoul

The minister told parliament that this is confirmed by the acquisition of various technologies, but emphasized that it is still too early to say whether Pyongyang has successfully tested a submarine-launched ballistic missile.

North Korea has declared its intention to develop submarines capable of launching ballistic missiles and has carried out tests of such missiles from underwater platforms. However, it remains unclear whether it has succeeded in mastering submarine-launched launches.

Deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea

Over the past two years, Russia and North Korea have significantly strengthened their military cooperation. According to South Korean intelligence, Pyongyang has sent more than 10,000 soldiers to participate in the war against Ukraine in exchange for economic and military aid from Moscow.

Russia and North Korea signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement in June 2024, which further strengthened their military ties. Moscow pledged to fulfill its commitments under this agreement to Pyongyang fully.

Losses and participation of North Korea in the war against Ukraine

According to South Korean intelligence, about 4,700 North Korean soldiers were killed or wounded while participating in combat operations on Russia's side in Ukraine. This includes around 600 dead and about 2,000 wounded who were returned to North Korea between January and March.

North Korea confirmed the deployment of its troops to Russia, citing the 2024 defense treaty that provides for mutual assistance in case of conflict. This involvement highlights the growing military cooperation between the two countries.

North Korea held a military parade during which Kim Jong Un showcased a new intercontinental missile before delegations from China, Russia, and Vietnam.

During the parade, North Korea also likely presented an analog of the American HIMARS multiple launch rocket system.