South Korea Warns of North Korea-Russia Military Cooperation Threat

South Korea's National Security Office Chief, Wi Sung-lak, stated on July 31 that the military cooperation between North Korea and Russia directly impacts South Korea's security, emphasizing that it is not an issue to be taken lightly. He called for an end to military cooperation that violates United Nations Security Council resolutions.

During a press briefing in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Wi responded to questions regarding the possibility of additional North Korean troop deployments to Russia. Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy raised concerns about potential North Korean troop deployments and missile attacks. There are also discussions in Ukraine about the possibility of drone production cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

Wi noted, "The military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, along with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, is a major concern for us. We are making efforts to gather and verify information as it becomes available." He specifically criticized Russia, stating that such cooperation contravenes UN Security Council resolutions and that all nations, especially responsible permanent members, must adhere to these resolutions.

He added, "We will closely monitor the overall situation in Ukraine and take necessary measures. We will strive to ensure that military cooperation between North Korea and Russia diminishes or ceases altogether."

Wi also mentioned that the South Korean government is considering various options, including deploying naval vessels or military assets, to support the free passage of ships through the Hormuz Strait. However, he clarified that no specific requests for military asset deployments have been received from the United States, and the government has not yet determined its support strategy.

He stated, "The U.S. has not made specific demands but is exploring what South Korea can contribute. Our government is engaging in discussions while internally reviewing various possibilities."

However, Wi emphasized that decisions cannot be made unilaterally by the government, noting that legal procedures require consensus from the National Assembly and public opinion.

He remarked, "The free passage through the Hormuz Strait is a significant interest for South Korea's economic security. The government believes it should actively participate and contribute to related processes, and is reviewing possible options."

Regarding recent controversies over the operation of U.S. drones and communication issues, Wi confirmed that prior communication had occurred between South Korea and the U.S., and that South Korea was aware of the related plans. He stated, "As far as we know, there has been communication between South Korea and the U.S., and we were aware of the plans. I do not see any significant issues, nor do I believe there are problems with communication or military discipline between our two countries."

He added, "We should also consider what level of reporting is appropriate. If both sides are aware of the plans, there should be no issues with cooperation and coordination, but I will look further into the internal reporting processes within the military."