North Korea Intensifies Recruitment of Its Citizens for Work in Russia’s Military-Industrial Complex, Strengthening Military Collaboration and Technological Exchange
Recent intelligence reports from Ukrainian security agencies reveal a significant deepening of cooperation between North Korea and Russia in the military sphere.
According to the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, thousands of North Korean citizens are already operating within Russia, engaging in work at defense enterprises, construction sectors, and weapon manufacturing facilities.
For example, over one thousand North Korean specialists are currently working in the Kursk region, involved in restoration and fortification efforts.
The broader plan involves deploying up to six thousand experts whose tasks include improving infrastructure for military needs, such as road repair and defensive fortification construction.
Moreover, these operations are just the initial phase of an expanded strategy, as North Korean engineers and technicians are expected to participate in producing ammunition, tanks, armored vehicles, and drones.
Significantly, North Korea is actively developing its own drone production capabilities, indicating that Pyongyang is not merely supporting Russia but also acquiring new technological skills to bolster its military potential.
Ukrainian intelligence also reports the recruitment of foreign citizens for work in Russia, many of whom are eventually transferred under the control of the Russian Defense Ministry to actively participate in combat operations.
Notably, the industrial zone in Yelabuga, which produces drones, is planned to expand from around one thousand to nearly forty thousand workers, with many foreign specialists agreeing to work there.
Subsequently, a large portion of these workers are integrated into Russian military units, enhancing Russia’s military and technological capabilities.
These developments highlight how North Korea is leveraging technological exchange and cooperation with Russia to strengthen its military power, posing a significant threat to regional stability and security.