South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has indicated that, according to statements reported by the Yonhap News Agency, South Korea may not rule out direct arms shipments to Ukraine. He emphasized that the decision will depend on North Korea’s level of involvement in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
During a press conference in Seoul, President Yoon stated, “We will gradually adjust our support strategy, which means we do not rule out the possibility of supplying arms to Ukraine.” He clarified that any initial support would likely focus on defensive weaponry.
Yoon’s concerns are rooted in the potential implications for South Korean security. Allowing North Korean forces to gain combat experience, he warned, could pose a critical threat to the nation’s safety.
This announcement marks a significant shift in South Korea’s stance. Seoul first hinted at possible military support for Ukraine after a June 19 agreement between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, wherein the two countries pledged mutual military support in the event of conflict. Intelligence reports indicate that North Korea has already sent Russia approximately 20,000 containers with over 9 million artillery shells since the start of the invasion in 2022.
Further, recent U.S. reports estimate that around 10,000 North Korean soldiers are stationed in Russia, with 8,000 positioned in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has launched offensives. Ukrainian intelligence confirmed that the number has now risen to 11,000, with initial clashes already reported between Ukrainian forces and North Korean troops.