Why Southeast Asia should worry about North Korean troops in Russia

Should Southeast Asian countries be worried that North Korea has sent up to 10,000 troops to Russia?

Clearly, they should, for in today’s globalised world, a change in the security dynamics of one region can have deleterious effects on other regions.

The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia underscores this reality, as it has not only raised tensions on the Korean peninsula but also threatens to prolong the Russia-Ukraine war. Neither bodes well for Southeast Asia and Asean’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

How has North Korea’s monumental decision to become a cobelligerent in the war affected security in Northeast Asia?

South Korea, the United States and Japan have all expressed alarm that in return for North Korean military help (which in addition to troops also includes short-range ballistic missiles and millions of artillery shells), Russia is supplying the impoverished regime with food, oil and financial assistance.

More worryingly, Moscow appears to be providing technological know-how to advance Pyongyang’s missile, satellite and submarine programmes. North Korean troops could also gain valuable combat experience if they are sent into battle against Ukrainian forces.