Russia gives food in exchange, according to South Korea’s defense chief

North Korea’s provision of millions of rounds of ammunition to Russia since August last year has prompted Russia to respond with substantial food aid to North Korea, resulting in stabilized food prices within the country, according to South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik.

Speaking at a press conference on Feb. 26, Shin said, “Since last August, more than 6,700 containers have been sent to Russia. If these containers hold 152 mm shells, the estimated quantity exceeds 3 million rounds; if they contain 122 mm shells, the estimate surpasses 500,000 rounds.” He added, “While North Korea’s typical military factories operate at around 30% capacity, the factories producing weapons and ammunition for supply to Russia are operating at full capacity.”

The ministry estimated that during the same period, approximately 9,000 containers crossed from Russia to North Korea. Shin said, “Though the exact contents of the containers aren’t confirmed, it seems food constitutes the largest portion, and due to Russia’s significant food support to North Korea, local food prices appear to be stable.” The ministry also speculated that some containers might contain raw materials and components for weapons manufacturing.

Shin’s statement corroborated previous announcements by the United States, indicating continued weapon transactions between North Korea and Russia post-summit. The U.S. had previously released photos of containers moving from North Korea to Russia in October last year, revealing that “Before the North Korea-Russia summit in September last year, North Korea supplied Russia with over 1,000 containers of military equipment and ammunition.”

Regarding the military technology Russia provides to North Korea, Shin said, “The satellite-related technology promised by President Vladimir Putin will continue to be sent to North Korea.” He added, “Additionally, North Korea is requesting aircraft-related technology and ground mobility equipment technology from Russia for its own needs.” Shin noted that as Russia becomes more dependent on North Korean ammunition, the extent of technology transfer from Russia to North Korea is likely to increase.

Shin further revealed plans to increase the frequency of joint military exercises between South Korea and the U.S. in the first half of this year in response to the North Korean threat. He said, “Last year, we conducted around 20 joint exercises, but this year, in the first half alone, the number will be close to 50.” He emphasized, “By intensifying these joint exercises, the potential losses North Korea may face from initiating a war will outweigh any perceived benefits.”

Shin also provided an update on the Malligyong-1 satellite launched by North Korea into orbit on Nov. 21 last year. He said while signals are being received normally, there are no signs of functionality, indicating its lack of military utility for functions like observation and surveillance.