Experts warned of the security risks of North Korea's involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war in a roundtable organized by the embassies of Germany and Ukraine in Seoul on Monday.
Alyona Getmanchuk, director of the Kyiv-based New Europe Center, warned against underestimating the role of North Korea in the conflict.
“North Korea's involvement is a dangerous development that we shouldn't downplay. While Western nations may appear disunited, authoritarian regimes are synchronizing their efforts, increasing their cooperation," she said.
In a conversation with The Korea Herald, Getmanchuk thanked support from South Korea, but warned that North Korea has progressed from supplying ammunition to missiles, according to her.
“Every contribution made in Ukraine is a step toward justice and stability. We appreciate any form of assistance, whether humanitarian or defensive,” she said.
Mykhailo Gonchar, founder and president of the Center for Global Studies Strategy XXI, also in Kyiv, emphasized the potential for cooperation between South Korea and Ukraine regarding information exchange on North Korean military activities in Europe.
“It’s a very crazy situation… Soldiers from North Korea in Europe are now real, which means we have more information about their capabilities than ever before,” he stated in an interview with The Korea Herald.
“Now, we are at a point where they are providing 50 percent of the ammunition for Russia,” Getmanchuk told The Korea Herald.
She also highlighted the rapid advancement of North Korean military technology, mentioning missiles like the KN-23, which have become more effective than their Russian counterparts.
The KN-23 ballistic missile, designed for a low trajectory to reduce flight time, initially had an error margin of 500 to 1,500 meters. Media reports indicate that Russian specialists have improved its accuracy, increasing its threat level.
Ukrainian Ambassador Dmytro Ponomarenko also said military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang is escalating threats affecting European stability.
“The conflict is not just about Ukraine; its ramifications extend far beyond our borders, affecting European stability, food security and international institutions. The deep military cooperation between Russia and North Korea further escalates these threats,” he said.
Joern Beissert, deputy chief of mission at the German Embassy, also said European countries expect South Korea's commitment.
“Exactly three years ago, Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in blatant violation of international law. Despite overwhelming odds and sacrifices, Ukraine has succeeded in defending itself and maintaining its independence,” Beissert said.
“The EU and its member states are the largest contributors to Ukraine's security. We expect the same commitment from our allies, including the Republic of Korea," he added.
sanjaykumar@heraldcorp.com
