Ian Storey

Asian Angle | Why Southeast Asia should worry about North Korean troops in Russia

The arrival of North Korean troops in Russia threatens to worsen and prolong the conflict in Ukraine, which would not be good for Southeast Asia

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un toast during a reception in Pyongyang on June 19. Photo: TNS

Ian Storey

Published: 10:00am, 9 Nov 2024

Should Southeast Asian countries be worried that North Korea has sent up to 10,000 troops to Russia?

Clearly, they should, for in today’s globalised world, a change in the security dynamics of one region can have deleterious effects on other regions.

The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia underscores this reality, as it has not only raised tensions on the Korean peninsula but also threatens to prolong the Russia-Ukraine war. Neither bodes well for Southeast Asia and Asean’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

How has North Korea’s monumental decision to become a cobelligerent in the war affected security in Northeast Asia?

South Korea, the United States and Japan have all expressed alarm that in return for North Korean military help (which in addition to troops also includes short-range ballistic missiles and millions of artillery shells), Russia is supplying the impoverished regime with food, oil and financial assistance.

A television in Seoul shows an image of soldiers believed to be from North Korea in Russia last month. Photo: AFP

More worryingly, Moscow appears to be providing technological know-how to advance Pyongyang’s missile, satellite and submarine programmes. North Korean troops could also gain valuable combat experience if they are sent into battle against Ukrainian forces.