North Korea-Russia Military Alignment... Wi Sunglak Expresses Concern Over Advancing North Korean Nuclear and Missile Capabilities

Reports on Russia Providing Nuclear Submarine Reactor to North Korea "Not Clear"
Closer North Korea-Russia Ties "Must Be Addressed in Any Way Possible"

National Security Advisor Wi Sunglak stated that reports claiming the military authorities have obtained intelligence suggesting Russia provided North Korea with a nuclear-powered submarine reactor are not clear. However, he pointed out that such developments are concerning, especially at a time when North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities are becoming more advanced.

Yonhap News Agency

On September 17, during a meeting with Korean newspaper and broadcast editors at the Korea Press Center, Advisor Wi commented on the reports, saying, "It has not been confirmed. It does not appear to be clear." Previously, some media outlets, citing government sources, reported that North Korea had persistently requested nuclear-powered submarine technology from Russia since last year, and that Russia had apparently decided to provide a reactor this year. Advisor Wi added, "I checked with the relevant departments, and it has not been confirmed."

He also expressed concern about the increasingly close relationship between North Korea and Russia. Advisor Wi said, "Russia and North Korea have reached the point of a military alliance, and it is concerning that such developments are occurring as North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities are advancing." He emphasized, "If cooperation between North Korea and Russia continues, North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities will only grow, which will not benefit inter-Korean relations, our security, or South Korea-Russia relations. This is an issue we must address in any way possible."