North Korea's Ballistic Missiles Pose Danger Amid Ongoing Ukraine War

In the continuing conflict in Ukraine, North Korean ballistic missiles have once again been launched, raising alarms with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the growing alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang. Zelenskyy articulated that as the war persists, advancements in military technology will escalate the threats faced not only by Ukraine but also by Europe and Asia. He emphasized the urgent need to address these challenges before superior weapons pose risks to major cities like Seoul and Tokyo.

Recent statements from Ukraine's military intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, suggest that Russia has significantly enhanced the capability of North Korea's KN-23 ballistic missiles. The Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team, consisting of multiple international members including the U.S. and South Korea, confirmed the extensive military support North Korea has provided to Russia, including troops and various munitions throughout the previous year. Reports indicate that while there were initial issues with the accuracy of North Korean-supplied missiles earlier in the conflict, improvements have been noted since a defense pact between Putin and Kim Jong Un was established earlier this summer.

Ukrainian officials are increasingly concerned about the exchange of troops and military supplies between North Korea and Russia, complemented by shared knowledge gained from Iranian drone technologies. Zelenskyy highlighted the peril for both Europe and Southeast Asia posed by the diffusion of advanced military technologies. Budanov indicated that North Korea is to begin developing Russian drones domestically, which he predicts will significantly alter the military balance in the Korean Peninsula.

The possibility of North Korea's growing missile technology leading to more dangerous outcomes is troubling, particularly regarding nuclear capabilities. Budanov acknowledged the potential for North Korean missiles to be suited for nuclear payloads and indicated that Russian support is assisting North Korea with their missile carrier issues.