North Korea’s Secret Talks with Putin: What’s Really Going On Between the Two Countries?

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) revealed key insights on November 20 regarding North Korea’s ongoing military support to Russia, including troop deployments and arms exports. The NIS noted that Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui’s recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin likely involved significant discussions, indicating the growing ties between the two nations. The agency also suggested that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un could visit Russia in the future, further deepening the partnership.

During a closed-door session of the National Assembly’s Intelligence Committee, the NIS stated that Choe’s visit was more than a routine diplomatic engagement, with the extended duration of her stay in Russia emphasizing the strength of North Korea-Russia relations. The NIS highlighted the importance of securing a meeting with Putin, who had initially hesitated and praised North Korea’s persistence in facilitating this meeting.

The NIS also emphasized the importance of monitoring potential transfers of weapons, equipment, or technology from Russia to North Korea, as this remains a key intelligence priority. Regarding the U.S. deployment of ATACMS to Ukraine, the NIS noted that political considerations likely influenced this decision, citing the differing approaches between the Trump and Biden administrations on Ukraine policy. Russia’s recent revision of its nuclear doctrine was interpreted by the NIS as a response to the U.S. supplying Ukraine with ATACMS, signaling a warning to the West about Russia’s readiness to adjust its nuclear posture.

Concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the NIS raised concerns that a prolonged war could lead to increased reliance on North Korea, potentially resulting in the transfer of sensitive technologies. The agency called for an early resolution to the conflict to prevent further escalation.

On North Korean troop deployments, the NIS confirmed that approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers, primarily from the 11th Corps, had completed adaptation training in northeastern Russia and were expected to be deployed to Kursk by late October. These troops have been integrated with Russian airborne and marine units, receiving tactical and counter-drone training, with some already engaged in frontline combat operations. The NIS acknowledged that casualties were likely and stated it was working to determine the exact scope of losses and operational details. The agency also noted conflicting reports about North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) and defectors, urging careful verification of these claims.

Regarding the estimated 12,000 to 15,000 North Korean troops reportedly deployed in Russia, the NIS assessed that the actual number is closer to 10,900 to 12,000, with the possibility of additional deployments if the conflict persists, driven by combat losses and Russian requests.

Finally, the NIS confirmed that North Korea has expanded its military support to Russia by exporting long-range artillery systems, such as 170mm self-propelled guns and 240mm multiple rocket launchers, in addition to previously reported shipments of shells and missiles. Given that these weapons are new to Russian forces, the NIS suggested that North Korea may be sending personnel for operational training and maintenance support.