The defense ministers of the US and South Korea have shared concerns over North Korean troops deployed to Russia. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the development underscores the importance of the US alliance with Seoul and other partners.

Austin met with his South Korean counterpart, Kim Yong-hyun. He told reporters after the meeting: "We shared our deep concerns about the deployment of DPRK troops to Russia. We also discussed how we're going to work together with our allies and partners to respond to the dangerous and destabilizing escalation."

Austin added that they have confirmed North Korean troops wearing Russian uniforms and carrying Russian equipment.

Kim said there is a high chance that, in return for the deployment, North Korea would ask Russia for technology transfers for their programs of nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Austin and Kim say they have agreed on several initiatives to deepen cooperation on extended deterrence.