Spy Agency Says Russia Aided North Korea's Failed Satellite Launch

South Korean lawmakers revealed that North Korea received Russian help for its failed satellite launch in May. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) indicated that the engine used was likely of Russian origin. Despite the incident, intelligence cooperation between the US and South Korea remains strong.

South Korean lawmakers have disclosed that North Korea likely received Russian assistance for its failed reconnaissance satellite launch in May. According to the country's spy agency, the National Intelligence Service (NIS), the engine used in the satellite was suspected to have Russian origins.

The agency reported to lawmakers that North Korea had claimed the use of a new 'liquid oxygen and petroleum engine,' which exploded shortly after lift-off. 'Given that liquid oxygen and kerosene were used in the engine for the first time, they had likely received Russian support,' noted Lee Seong-kweun, a member of the parliamentary intelligence committee, after being briefed by the NIS.

Moscow reportedly also aided Pyongyang's successful satellite launch last November. This collaboration followed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's rare trip to Russia, where President Vladimir Putin promised support for satellite development. Despite ongoing military cooperation, Russia and North Korea have denied any arms transactions. Additionally, the NIS reported no major issues in intelligence cooperation between the US and South Korea, despite a recent indictment of foreign policy expert Sue Mi Terry by US authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)