North Korean soldiers learning Russian commands and may be sent to Ukraine front lines, South Korean lawmakers say

North Korean soldiers may soon be deployed to the front lines of Russia's conflict with Ukraine, with reports indicating they are receiving training in basic Russian commands. An estimated 10,000 North Korean troops are being trained in eastern Russia.

There is speculation about the presence of high-ranking North Korean military officials moving to support Russia. These soldiers are reportedly learning approximately 100 basic military terms like 'fire' and 'in position.' Nonetheless, there are challenges concerning language barriers.

North Korea has imposed strict security measures to maintain secrecy about these deployments. Soldiers are prohibited from using phones, and families are informed that their relatives are engaged in routine military exercises. Despite this, news of the deployments has led to unrest and fear of being dispatched overseas among North Korean citizens.

Reports have emerged of intercepted communications revealing Russian soldiers' disdainful remarks towards the North Korean troops, referring to them as the 'K Battalion.' Allegedly, there will be one interpreter and three senior officers for every 30 North Korean soldiers, a plan reportedly criticized by Russian servicemen.

This initiative could signify North Korea's most significant role in a global conflict, though many of its 1.2 million troops lack combat experience. Official statements have previously dismissed claims of troop deployments, but recent high-level engagements suggest discussions of North Korean military involvement.

North Korea's foreign minister has recently traveled to Russia for dialogues potentially related to troop dispatches. Meanwhile, South Korea's top foreign and defense officials are preparing for discussions with their U.S. counterparts.