Russia Won’t Know What Hit Them – North Korea’s Military Leader Has Arrived!

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) revealed that North Korean forces arrived in Russia’s Kursk region much earlier than expected. Initially, South Korean officials estimated a December deployment, but this rapid shift signals heightened urgency and coordination between Moscow and Pyongyang.

The NIS also verified that Kim Yong-bok, a senior military figure and close ally of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has taken command in Russia. As Deputy Chief of the General Staff and head of North Korea’s special operations, Kim’s presence hints at a significant North Korean role in Russia’s military strategies.

“Following intelligence disclosures, the cooperation between Russia and North Korea appears to have accelerated,” noted Hong Jang-won, the First Deputy Director of the NIS. Speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Hong detailed the updated assessments on this unexpected timeline and highlighted the scale of the deployment: around 12,000 North Korean troops. “The movement of 12,000 personnel is necessary, and with the public exposure of their intent and maneuvers, there seems to be a sense of urgency in their deployment,” Hong stated. He also hinted that these troops may already be on the move or stationed within the Kursk region.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol also expressed concerns over the deployment’s timing. In a call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Yoon underscored the “serious potential of North Korean troops entering the Ukrainian frontlines faster than anticipated.” His remarks reflect mounting apprehension that North Korean involvement could influence the conflict’s dynamics on a larger scale.

Later that day, President Yoon discussed North Korean troop movements with NATO officials, following a North Atlantic Council (NAC) briefing. Hong confirmed to NATO that Kim Yong-bok has officially assumed his command role. The Japanese media, Kyodo News, also verified Kim’s arrival in Russia as the top commander of these North Korean forces. This move signals North Korea’s deeper involvement in Russia’s strategic efforts, sparking international concern.

A South Korean delegation plans to visit Ukraine soon to engage with officials there and discuss possible avenues for cooperation. During a call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Yoon emphasized the urgency of cracking down on illegal exchanges between North Korea and Russia, urging NATO to intensify its vigilance and work together on a global response.

In addition to its Ukraine visit, the South Korean delegation will also meet with the EU’s Political and Security Committee (PSC) on October 29 to provide updates on the North Korean troop movement and discuss further steps.