Commentary
North Korean troops haven’t seen foreign combat since the Korean War ended in 1953. The brief training provided by Russia—just a few weeks—isn’t enough to prepare them for modern warfare. They lack experience with current military tactics, especially involving drones and electronic warfare, which could lead to disastrous results on the battlefield.
Ukraine’s flat terrain vastly differs from North Korea’s mountains, adding to the challenges. Language barriers and cultural differences make coordination with Russian forces difficult; reports indicate only one translator for every 30 soldiers.
Soldiers from North Korea are also equipped with outdated weapons like 60 mm mortars, AK-12 rifles, and basic anti-tank missiles, which are ineffective in today’s high-tech warfare dominated by precision strikes and advanced surveillance.
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A member of Ukraine’s 72nd Brigade Anti-air unit points to the direction of a Russian Zala reconnaissance drone sighted overhead as they prepare to fire a Strela -10 anti-air missile system near Marinka, Ukraine, on Feb. 23, 2024. Chris McGrath/Getty Images
With more than 10,000 troops deployed, North Korea could earn over $200 million a year. Russia has also promised to supply 600,000 to 700,000 tons of rice annually, addressing about 20 percent of North Korea’s food shortages.
North Korea is also seeking Russian assistance in developing tactical nuclear weapons, missiles, and military satellite technology. While it’s uncertain if Russia will follow through, the partnership increases North Korea’s chances of obtaining advanced military capabilities. The regime hopes to gain firsthand experience of modern warfare and test its weapons against Ukraine’s Western-supplied arsenal.
However, the costs are immediate and serious. If North Korean troops are used in mass assaults—a tactic from the Korean War—they might not last more than a few weeks.
If Moscow doesn’t support wounded or killed North Korean soldiers, it could exacerbate the situation.
Internationally, North Korea risks straining its relationships. Pyongyang’s strategic value to Moscow could diminish if Russia continues to struggle in the war despite North Korean support. Additionally, North Korea’s actions could strain its ties with China, its most important ally, further complicating its position on the global stage.
While North Korea hopes for Russian support in future conflicts on the Korean Peninsula—following their recent mutual defense pact—this support heavily depends on the outcome of the war in Ukraine. The high costs in lives and potential political instability could outweigh any uncertain benefits.
In international politics and warfare, miscalculations can have serious consequences—a reality that North Korea may soon have to face.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
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