Approximately 2,000 North Korean soldiers deployed to assist Russia in its conflict with Ukraine have reportedly been killed, as per the latest assessments from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS). This update was shared by lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun after a briefing with the agency, noting a significant increase from an earlier estimate of at least 600 casualties.
In 2024, North Korea is said to have sent more than 10,000 troops to Russia, primarily stationed in the Kursk region. Alongside these soldiers, North Korea has also supplied artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems. Lawmaker Lee indicated that North Korea is planning to send an additional 6,000 troops and engineers to Russia, with approximately 1,000 already having arrived.
Earlier statements from Moscow’s Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, suggested that North Korea would contribute laborers and deminers to the Kursk region. While North Korea officially confirmed its troop deployment to support Russia in April, it has acknowledged the casualties among its forces engaged in the conflict.
In a notable display of empathy, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has met with the families of fallen soldiers, expressing condolences for their “unbearable pain.” State media coverage has highlighted Kim’s emotional interactions with returning soldiers, including instances where he embraced a soldier and honored the memory of those who died by placing medals and flowers beside their portraits.
The military collaboration between Russia and North Korea solidified last year with the signing of a military agreement that includes a mutual defense clause, marked by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to North Korea. This growing partnership has drawn the attention of both South Korean and Western intelligence officials, who continue to monitor developments on the ground.
