Around 600 North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine have been killed, with thousands more wounded, according to a South Korean lawmaker briefed by the country’s intelligence service. The revelation comes after Pyongyang officially confirmed for the first time that it had deployed troops to assist Moscow in its ongoing war against Ukraine.
MP Lee Seong-kweun, a member of South Korea’s National Assembly Intelligence Committee, stated on Wednesday that North Korean casualties are estimated at approximately 4,700, including around 600 deaths. These figures follow a briefing from the National Intelligence Service (NIS), which also confirmed reports of North Korean soldiers aiding Russia in the contested Kursk region, near Ukraine’s border.
According to Lee, Pyongyang has deployed about 18,000 troops in two phases to support Russia’s military efforts, specifically aiding in the recapture of territory. The KCNA, North Korea’s state news agency, recently acknowledged their involvement, stating that their soldiers were instrumental in Russia’s operations in Kursk.
Moscow also confirmed the presence of North Korean troops after months of silence, despite consistent accusations by Seoul and Washington that Pyongyang was increasing military support to Russia. In return, the North is believed to have received substantial technological assistance from Russia.
Approximately 2,000 North Korean soldiers have since been repatriated and are currently being held in isolation in Pyongyang and other regions, Lee said. Bodies of those killed were reportedly cremated in Kursk and sent back to North Korea.
Lee also revealed reports of misconduct within the North Korean ranks, including alcohol abuse and theft. However, he noted that after six months of combat, their overall effectiveness had “significantly improved,” with increased proficiency in using advanced weapons systems such as drones.
The elite Storm Corps, reportedly part of the deployment, has allegedly received orders to commit suicide rather than be captured. This disturbing directive underscores the deepening military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, particularly following the 2023 defense pact signed during President Vladimir Putin’s rare visit to North Korea.
Experts continue to warn that North Korea may be testing weapons for potential export to Russia, further complicating global security dynamics.
