South Korean analysts have shared some intelligence on the movements of North Korean troops in Russia. They told lawmakers in Seoul on Tuesday that the soldiers may be heading toward the front lines of the war in Ukraine.
Analysts with the National Intelligence Service revealed some of what they have learned to members of the parliamentary intelligence committee. They are still checking details, but they said the deputy chief of the General Staff of the Korean People’s Army, Kim Yong Bok, could be in an advance unit. Kim is also believed to be a close aide to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The analysts estimate that most of the soldiers sent to Russia are in their early 20s, with some possibly in their late teens. They warn the troops should not be underestimated. But they say that soldiers from the North and from Russia have run into a language barrier. “Around 100 military terms are being taught,” said committee member Lee Seong-kweun. “North Korean troops are reportedly struggling with them, raising doubts about resolving communication issues.”
Russian media say North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui has headed to Moscow for talks. The reports say she is expected to discuss the deployment of troops and a possible visit by Kim Jong Un later this year.