North Korean casualties mount as troops bolster Russia's front
Approximately 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed in Russia while fighting on behalf of that country against Ukraine. Several thousand more have been injured. This information comes from South Korean intelligence data.
What you need to know
- Approximately 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed in Russia, and several thousand have been injured. This information was provided by Lee Seong-kweun, a South Korean parliamentarian, citing intelligence data.
- The bodies of the fallen are being cremated in the Kursk region of Russia and then transported back to North Korea. About 2,000 soldiers have returned to their home country and are currently in isolation.
- North Korea sent 18,000 soldiers to Russia to support military operations in the Kursk region. This aid has already brought significant income to Pyongyang. The combat capability of these troops has improved significantly.
What are the consequences for North Korea?
According to South Korean parliamentarian Lee Seong-kweun, about 600 North Korean soldiers have died in Russia, and several thousand have been injured. This data comes from South Korean intelligence sources. — So far, North Korean troop casualties are estimated at around 4,700, including approximately 600 deaths — said Lee Seong-kweun.
Why did Pyongyang send soldiers to Russia?
The North Korean authorities confirmed they sent soldiers to Russia to support military operations in the Kursk region. — North Korea supported Russia's recapture of Kursk by deploying 18,000 troops in two phases — said Lee Seong-kweun. The combat capability of these troops has significantly improved, and they have become more proficient in using new weapons systems.
According to information from the South Korean lawmaker, the bodies of the fallen are cremated in the Kursk region of Russia, and the remains are transported to North Korea. Approximately 2,000 North Korean soldiers have returned to their home country and are currently isolated from the outside world. Lee Seong-kweun added that there have been "reports of misconduct within North Korean forces, including excessive drinking and theft" committed by Pyongyang's military personnel.
What are the international reactions?
Kyiv has denied reports of Ukrainian forces being ousted from the Kursk region, assuring that they continue to conduct military operations there. Meanwhile, Russian leader Vladimir Putin thanked North Korea for its military support. — Combat capability has significantly improved. Early inexperience has diminished, and they have become more proficient in using new weapon systems, including drones — added Lee Seong-kweun.
