North Korean casualties in Russia-Ukraine conflict surge
According to South Korean intelligence data, over 4,000 North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the conflict with Ukraine have been killed or wounded.
The South Korean intelligence service, NIS, has reported that the number of North Korean soldiers killed or wounded in the war with Ukraine has exceeded 4,000. Earlier estimates mentioned 3,000 casualties, which constituted nearly one-quarter of the 11,000 soldiers sent to Russia by the Pyongyang regime.
According to NIS, after a brief withdrawal from the front line in the Kursk region, North Korea sent an additional 3,000 to 4,000 soldiers to compensate for the losses. Li Song Kwun, the vice-chairman of the intelligence committee of the South Korean National Assembly, confirmed this information.
The South Korean military intelligence (NIS), as quoted by the Polish Press Agency, estimates that at the beginning of the year, at least "3,000 soldiers" were sent to Russia. The regime in Pyongyang is attempting to conceal its involvement by recovering the bodies of the fallen.
Drastic measures by conscripts
The Ukrainian side indicates that the presence of soldiers from North Korea affected the balance of power in the Kursk region in favour of the Russians. However, according to NIS, the role of Kim Jong Un's army was not significant, as they were largely used as "cannon fodder."
Some North Koreans of conscription age are taking drastic measures, injuring themselves to avoid being sent to the front. The authorities are offering gifts and support to the families of the soldiers to prevent social unrest.
Referring to the possibility of North Korea conducting another nuclear test, NIS indicates that the regime is "ready to conduct another test at any moment."
Cooperation between Russia and North Korea
North Korea can count on support from Russia. A report from the Asan Institute for Policy Studies indicates that despite sanctions and infrastructure limitations, Russia and North Korea will continue pragmatic cooperation. Even amidst talks of ending the war in Ukraine, cooperation between these countries is likely to endure. Analysts point out that Russia, despite the potential end of the conflict, will still need Pyongyang as a trusted partner.
Russia's strategic goal of strengthening its influence in the Asia-Pacific region aligns with North Korea's ambitions, reads the report, quoted by PAP.
