North Korean troops become pivotal force in Kursk conflict
North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region have quickly become the most valuable force on the battlefield, reports the "Wall Street Journal." "They pay with their blood. However, this experience will not be squandered," says a member of the Ukrainian military.
What do you need to know?
- North Korean soldiers operating in the Kursk region have emerged as a crucial force on the battlefield, thanks to their willingness to attack under any circumstances, reports the "Wall Street Journal."
- The military has already become accustomed to the dynamics of modern warfare. They know, among other things, how to combat drones.
- "They pay with their blood. However, this experience will not be squandered," remarks one of the Ukrainian commanders.
In December, approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers were sent to the Kursk region, where Ukrainians were conducting a military operation. Initially, they struggled on the battlefield, operating in large groups without support from artillery, drones, or armoured vehicles, making them easy targets.
"It was reminiscent of World War II scenes; they just charged," recounts one of the military personnel. "They advanced, shouting in Korean; there was a lot of shouting," he adds. Later, Ukrainians realised that their opponents did not use radio communication and issued commands by shouting.
Despite their inexperience, only a few fell into Ukrainian hands. Most opted for death by detonating grenades.
The Koreans improved. "They pay with their blood"
As reported by the "Wall Street Journal," by February, the Koreans' tactics improved. They began operating in small groups, better integrated with Russian forces, as well as artillery and drones.
"They pay with their blood. However, this experience will not be squandered," said Captain Oleg Shiryaev, commander of the 225th battalion.
The Koreans were the quickest to adapt to countering drones. "Initially, the North Koreans simply observed the drones, not realising their threat. But they swiftly learned tactics to either evade them or shoot them down," wrote the "Wall Street Journal." For example, they might use one soldier as bait for a drone and then bring down the machine.
"They are engaging with modern warfare and are learning from it," says a Ukrainian soldier.
The "WSJ" contends that currently, the Koreans are among the most valuable soldiers on the battlefield. In a war where drones have rendered infantry survival exceedingly perilous, the readiness of the North Koreans to advance under fire is a significant advantage, analysts believe.
Source: "Wall Street Journal"
