North Korea supplies Russia with 12 million rounds of 152 mm artillery shells

North Korea has delivered over 12 million rounds of 152 mm artillery shells to Russia, according to South Korea’s military intelligence agency. The deliveries are part of Pyongyang’s ongoing support for Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

A report from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), submitted to a member of South Korea’s main opposition party, revealed that North Korea has sent approximately 28,000 containers filled with weapons and ammunition to Russia. The DIA, which operates under South Korea’s Defense Ministry, estimated the shipment included more than 12 million 152 mm shells.

The DIA’s report outlines the scale of North Korea’s military assistance to Russia. Since October of last year, Pyongyang has sent conventional weapons as well as personnel to aid Moscow’s efforts. In total, about 13,000 North Korean troops have been dispatched to assist Russian forces.

In addition to artillery supplies, North Korea is expected to send more troops in the coming months. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service stated in June that another deployment may occur in July or August.

According to Russian media reports, plans include dispatching 5,000 military construction workers and 1,000 sappers to Kursk to support reconstruction and engineering operations.

The continued cooperation between North Korea and Russia marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict, with Pyongyang playing an increasingly visible role in supporting Moscow’s war against Ukraine.

BY MOOYOUNG LEE  [lee.mooyoung@koreadaily.com]