[As reported by South Korean agency Yonhap](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20241022005551315?section=national/defence), **Seul announced "stepping up" against North Korea and Russia** in connection with the deepening military cooperation. North Korea was besides called upon to retreat its troops from Russia and the front in Ukraine. There are now even 12,000 soldiers from the North. South Korean National safety Advisor Kim Tae-hyo openly stated that "the government calls for the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops".
