**North Korean Leader Could Face War Crime Probe**
The leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, could be investigated for war crimes by the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to a former president of the ICC. Song Sang-hyun made this statement on May 19, citing North Korea’s support for Russia’s war against Ukraine.
**North Korean Troops Fighting Alongside Russians**
In late April, North Korea confirmed that it had sent troops to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. This is not the first time North Korean soldiers have been involved in combat, but it is a significant development given the scale of the conflict. According to reports, around 11,000 North Korean troops were dispatched in 2024, with an additional 3,000 sent earlier this year.
**Human Rights Abuses and ICC Investigation**
Despite numerous human rights abuses in North Korea, the ICC has not indicted Kim Jong Un. However, there are now sufficient legal grounds for Ukraine to initiate a case against him for assisting Russia in waging war. Song Sang-hyun emphasized that the time is right to bring Kim before the ICC.
**Calls for More Active Response**
Song also urged the ICC to respond more actively to war crimes committed by North Korean leadership and their allies. He noted that while a complaint filed by Ukraine would be ideal, the ICC has the authority to initiate an independent investigation.
**Kim’s Role in Russia-Ukraine War**
Kim Jong Un has been one of the key allies of Russia during its full-scale war against Ukraine. In addition to sending soldiers, North Korea has provided artillery shells, ballistic missiles, and other supplies to support Russian forces.
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