North Korea: Reduction in Arms shipments to Russia ― Nov 5, 2025
written by SI Analytics
Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, North Korea has used two piers at Rajin Port (from August 2023) to export weapons and import consumer goods; however, since this May the country appears to be operating only a single pier. Analysts assess this change reflects reduced demand for additional weapons, possibly linked to the cessation of active combat by DPRK-deployed forces in Kursk. At Pier No. 2, container counts declined from earlier levels, falling by roughly half to approximately 600 units beginning in September. Indicators suggest the reduction in exports is transient. Despite the recent decrease, Russian freighters have continued to load arms at Rajin Port. Taken together, these observations imply Rajin retains the infrastructure, handling capacity, and readiness to expand weapons exports on short notice.
North Korea: Reduction in Arms shipments to Russia ― Nov 5, 2025