In a statement on Thursday, South Korean Ambassador Joonkook Hwang strongly criticized North Korea for using Ukraine as a testing ground for its nuclear-capable missiles. He also condemned Russia's involvement in using these missiles in recent attacks, which occurred on December 30, January 2, and January 4.

Ambassador Hwang specifically highlighted Russia's use of KN-23 short-range ballistic missiles, which were previously tested by North Korea in 2018 and 2019. These missiles have a range of up to 690 kilometers (428 miles), enabling them to hit targets at a significant distance. Hwang warned that the export of these missiles by North Korea poses a serious threat to South Korea's security. He further criticized the UN Council for their silence on this matter, claiming that their inaction has emboldened North Korea's leadership.

According to the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies' North Korea Missile Test Tracker, North Korea has conducted 68 missile launches in 2022, a significant escalation since 2017. Ambassador Hwang stressed that Russia is now taking advantage of North Korea's missile expertise, utilizing these weapons in its aggression against Ukraine.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby confirmed last Thursday that Russia had acquired "several dozen" ballistic missiles from North Korea, using them in two separate attacks on December 30 and January 2. Experts from the Institute for the Study of War believe that Russia seeks North Korea's missile capabilities due to their effectiveness against Ukrainian air defenses. The think tank referenced an attack on December 29, where Ukraine successfully intercepted 149 out of the 166 cruise missiles launched by Russia, but only managed to intercept a "handful" of ballistic missiles. It concluded that the latter type appears to be more adept at penetrating or evading Ukrainian defenses.

Additionally, the Institute for the Study of War suggested that Russia may also be exploring options in Iran for procuring ballistic missiles. The implications of North Korean missiles being introduced into the conflict in Ukraine are significant for global nuclear non-proliferation efforts, as stated by Ambassador Hwang.

The situation serves as a stark reminder of the continued threat posed by North Korea's missile program, as well as the consequences of their collaboration with other countries seeking advanced weaponry. The international community must address these concerns and take decisive action to ensure regional security and prevent further escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.