South Korea stands firm: No direct artillery aid for Ukraine
The office of the president of South Korea has stated that the country is not considering directly supplying Ukraine with 155 mm artillery shells.
The announcement, reported by agencies such as Yonhap, responds to media speculations about a potential change in the South Korean government's approach to the war in Ukraine. Although Seoul is deeply concerned about the strengthening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang—especially with the presence of South Korean soldiers in Russia—it will not currently depart from its established principle of not supplying lethal weapons to Ukraine.
One of the largest ammunition producers in the world
According to South Korean and Ukrainian media, one possible aid was transferring 155 mm artillery ammunition. The Global Firepower ranking places South Korea as having the fifth strongest military in the world. Equally important, however, is the fact that it is one of the largest producers of ammunition, including 155 mm artillery shells.
In the defense plants located in South Korea, not only are basic 155 mm artillery shells manufactured—containing 14.5 lbs of TNT and with a range of up to approximately 19 miles—but also more advanced shells with cluster warheads and those with gas generators, which offer enhanced capabilities and a longer range.
Artillery ammunition has proven to be one of the key resources used in combat during the war in Ukraine. From the very beginning of this conflict, the Russians have had a significant advantage in the amount of ammunition they possess. Although Ukraine does receive supplies from NATO allies, these reinforcements are insufficient given the needs of the Ukrainian army—particularly because it has received many artillery systems that utilize 155 mm shells. These systems include the Krab howitzers from Poland, CAESAR from France, and Panzerhaubitze 2000 (PzH 2000) from Germany.
South Korean ammunition delivered through "back channels"?
Information reported in 2023 by sources like The Korea Times indicated that ammunition from South Korea significantly assists Ukrainians, although it is supplied indirectly. South Korea was reportedly supplying the United States with artillery shells to fill gaps in American reserves created by shipments to Ukraine. A similar scenario could occur now. Another option is to send South Korean artillery shells to Ukraine, but not directly; instead, utilizing an intermediary country.
