North Korea to Send Thousands of Workers to Russia for Drone Production and Kursk Reconstruction
North Korea is planning to send up to 25,000 workers to Russia, with a large majority assigned to assist in the mass production of Shahed-type attack drones and the remaining to help in the reconstruction of the Kursk region, according to various media sources. This move comes amid escalating military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, raising concerns from neighboring countries.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
The two nations have been strengthening their ties through multiple visits and discussions, primarily led by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu. Shoigu has been to North Korea thrice in the past three months, with the most recent visit being a special assignment
from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The workers will be sent to the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan, where Moscow operates a facility for assembling Iranian-designed Shahed drones. These drones, known for their low cost and heavy explosive payloads, have been utilized extensively by Russia since late 2022 to attack Ukrainian cities.
Meanwhile, a group of 1,000 combat engineers and 5,000 workers will head to the Kursk Region for reconstruction efforts. The region has seen significant damage and loss, with over 6,000 North Korean casualties reported during offensive operations.
Implications and International Reactions
The increased cooperation between Russia and North Korea has sparked concerns globally. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba have discussed this issue, deeming it a real threat not only to Europe but to the entire world, including the Southeast Asian region.
The strategic pact also includes plans for air traffic between the countries, with rail traffic currently being restored. This is in line with the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty that demands constant attention, adjustments, and decisions at all levels, as noted by Shoigu.
Additionally, memorials for the Korean soldiers who died while liberating the Kursk Region are planned to be established.
Ongoing Developments
As of now, thousands of North Korean laborers are already working in Russia. This new contingent is headed to the region where North Korean troops previously fought against Ukraine. Reports suggest that Pyongyang seeks drone operation training in return for the labor supply to boost drone production.
North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's military efforts, such as supplying Moscow with artillery shells, missiles, and soldiers, signals its emergence as a key ally for Russia. However, the large-scale deployment of workers and soldiers to Russia has come at a cost, with North Korea suffering significant casualties.
Despite the high risk, unnamed diplomatic sources cited by NHK report that North Korea is considering sending additional troops to make up for the losses, showing a continued commitment to its partnership with Russia.