North Korean soldiers and weapons: how Pyongyang profits from the war
16 March 16:40
North Korea may have received between $7.67 billion and $14.4 billion from its cooperation with Russia, specifically for supplying weapons and sending troops to fight in the war against Ukraine.
This is the conclusion reached by analysts at South Korea’s National Security Institute. The Yonhap news agency reported on the study’s findings, according to [Komersant].
How many troops could the DPRK have sent?
According to the researchers, since October 2024, Pyongyang has sent its units to Russia at least four times.
In total, the following could have been involved in the war against Ukraine:
- more than 20,000 North Korean soldiers
At the same time, arms exports to Russia began even earlier—in August 2023.
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What revenue could the DPRK have generated
Analysts estimate that between August 2023 and December 2025, North Korea could have earned:
- between $7.67 billion and $14.4 billion in hard currency
Of this amount:
- about $620 million could have been direct payments for troop deployment,
- these funds include soldiers’ salaries and compensation for the deceased.
If the practice of deploying troops continues, Pyongyang could receive approximately $560 million annually solely from the participation of its contingent.
Payments may be partially deferred
The study also notes that actual payments may currently amount to only about 19.6% of the total calculated amount.
Part of the compensation will likely be provided later and may include:
- military technology,
- specialized equipment,
- materials for the defense industry.
Why this matters for sanctions
Experts warn that such cooperation could weaken the effectiveness of international sanctions against Pyongyang.
The sanctions were intended to:
- limit the regime’s foreign exchange earnings,
- complicate the financing of the DPRK’s missile and nuclear program.
If revenues from cooperation with Russia increase, this pressure mechanism could be partially neutralized.
New missile launches
Amid military cooperation with Russia, North Korea continues to demonstrate missile activity.
Recently, the country launched about ten ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan.
The launches took place while South Korea and the United States were conducting their annual spring military exercises.
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