NIS: Some North Korean Troops Dispatched to Russia May Move to Frontlines

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) believes that some high-ranking officers among the North Korean troops deployed to Russia may have moved to the front lines.

On the 29th, during the National Assembly Intelligence Committee hearing held by the NIS, this information was reported, according to Lee Seong-gwon of the People Power Party and Park Seon-won of the Democratic Party, who are the committee's floor leaders.

Cho Tae-yong, Director of the National Intelligence Service, is drinking water while attending the National Assembly Intelligence Committee's audit of the National Intelligence Service held at the NIS in Naegok-dong, Seoul, on the 29th.

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The NIS stated, "The transfer of troops between North Korea and Russia is underway," adding, "We are keeping open the possibility that some personnel, including high-ranking military officers, have moved to the front lines and are verifying this." Although Russia is providing military terminology training to North Korean soldiers, it is known that communication difficulties are being experienced. Regarding this, the NIS speculated, "The resolution of communication issues appears uncertain."

Regarding future provocations by North Korea, the NIS forecasted the possibility of launches of hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) and large intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The NIS said, "North Korea seems prepared to relaunch the reconnaissance satellite that failed in May through the purchase of advanced components and technological cooperation with Russia," adding, "We are closely monitoring the situation, keeping in mind the possibility of a seventh nuclear test after the U.S. presidential election."

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