According to South Korean intelligence, North Korea is preparing to manufacture and supply kamikaze drones to Russia, first showcased by Kim Jong-un in November. On December 23, the South Korean military command stated that North Korea is likely gearing up to deploy additional troops and military equipment, including these drones, to support Russia's war against Ukraine.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea indicated that there are signs of troop rotation or an increase in military deployment in Russia. The statement also noted the possibility of North Korea transitioning to the production and supply of kamikaze drones.
This week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that Russia is attempting to conceal the losses of North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region, reportedly by burning their faces. According to South Korean intelligence, around 100 North Korean soldiers have died since their involvement in the conflict.