South Korea's indirect aid in the Ukraine conflict through the U.S.
The office of the South Korean president has stated that the country is not considering the direct supply of 155 mm artillery shells to Ukraine.
The announcement, reported by Yonhap, among others, responds to media speculation about a potential shift in South Korea's stance on the war in Ukraine. Although Seoul is deeply concerned about the growing ties between Moscow and Pyongyang—especially with reports of South Korean soldiers appearing in Russia—it will currently maintain its policy of not supplying lethal weapons to Ukraine.
One of the largest ammunition producers in the world
As suggested by South Korean and Ukrainian media, one potential form of assistance was the transfer of 155 mm artillery ammunition. According to the Global Firepower ranking, South Korea is the fifth-strongest military power globally. Equally important, it is one of the largest ammunition producers, including 155 mm artillery shells.
South Korean arms factories produce basic 155 mm artillery shells, which contain 6.6 kg of TNT and have a range of about 30 kilometres. They also manufacture more advanced shells with cluster warheads and gas generators, providing greater capabilities, such as extended range.
Artillery ammunition has proven to be one of the key resources in combat during the war in Ukraine. From the outset of this conflict, the Russians have held a significant advantage in the quantity of ammunition. Although Ukraine receives support from NATO allies, these reinforcements are insufficient for the needs of the Ukrainian army. This is particularly true given that they use many artillery systems with 155 mm shells, including Poland's Krab self-propelled howitzers, CAESAR from France, and Germany's Panzerhaubitze 2000 (PzH 2000).
South Korean ammunition delivered "through the back door"?
As reported in 2023 by The Korea Times, South Korean ammunition has provided tangible support to Ukrainians, albeit indirectly. South Korea is reportedly supplying artillery shells to the United States to replenish American stockpiles depleted after shipments to Ukraine. A similar scenario could occur now. Alternatively, South Korean artillery shells might be sent to Ukraine, not directly, but via an intermediary country.
