South Korea’s foreign ministry summoned Russian Ambassador Georgiy Zinoviev on Monday to strongly protest the deployment of North Korean troops to Ukraine. Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun condemned the “illegal military cooperation in the strongest terms,” warning that “all available means will be mobilized” against actions threatening Seoul’s “core security interests.” Russia swiftly countered, stating that Moscow’s cooperation with Pyongyang adheres to international law and does not jeopardize South Korean security interests.

The spat comes months after Seoul’s top security official warned of potentially providing lethal weapons to Ukraine should Russia cross a “red line.” However, Seoul remained vague on Monday about whether it will do so, with the defense ministry spokesperson stating that the government is “open to various possibilities” for response.

WHY IT MATTERS

The gradual decline in Russia-South Korea diplomatic ties throughout the year, despite President Yoon Suk-yeol’s initial hints at restoring trade relations, underscores a significant shift in regional dynamics. While the North Korean troop deployment to Ukraine doesn’t pose an immediate threat to South Korean citizens, its long-term implications are substantial. The combat experience gained may compel the ROK military to update its tactics.

The Russian embassy’s claim that Moscow-Pyongyang cooperation poses no threat to ROK security has sparked rare bipartisan unity in Seoul. Both the ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the opposition Democratic Party (DP) have united in condemning the deployment, even discussing a potential joint resolution. However, this unity has limitations, particularly regarding lethal weapons provision to Ukraine. The parties continue to differ on the National Assembly’s role in the legislative oversight over executive actions in matters such as aid to conflict zones.

The two sides on Monday also diverged on follow-up actions. Some PPP lawmakers are advocating for sending an observation team to Ukraine, arguing for the need to monitor North Korean troop activities and assist in potential interrogations when soldiers are captured. DP lawmakers are urging caution, warning against actions that could be perceived as direct military involvement. This lack of political consensus on specific actions will further complicate the government’s decision-making process.