North Korea’s current involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine is relatively limited, with an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 soldiers contributing to the conflict.
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However, this number represents only about 1% of the total fighting force in Russia, according to expert Narozhnyi.
Narozhnyi acknowledged that while North Korea’s current presence is small, the scenario of sending tens of thousands of soldiers to Russia is “absolutely real.”
“If this scenario plays out, they could have a significant impact on the situation,” he said.
Narozhnyi also suggested that North Korea’s involvement could serve as leverage in negotiations with South Korea, a leader in arms production.
“Let’s hope South Korea will join the civilized world’s coalition and provide military assistance to help counter the North Koreans,” he added.
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The expert noted that North Korean forces are learning modern warfare techniques, including the use of armored vehicles, drones, and heavy artillery. “They’re not just here to take part in bloody assaults but to learn and improve their military capabilities,” Narozhnyi said, referencing North Korea’s initial involvement in Kursk Oblast.
In late November 2024, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed support for Russia’s “right to self-defense” following strikes inside Russian territory.
He also pledged to strengthen military ties with Russia as part of a broader strategic partnership established with Russian President Vladimir Putin in June.
North Korea’s military involvement began in the fall of 2024, with an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 soldiers sent to Russia.
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Following this, the North Korean soldiers have been battling alongside Russian troops in Kursk Oblast, with reports indicating substantial losses among their ranks.
On March 27, South Korea’s military stated that they believed North Korea might have sent around 3,000 extra troops to assist Russia in its ongoing conflict.
On April 11, the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces reported that over 4,000 North Korean troops were confirmed dead in battles with Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast.
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Read the initial article on
The Fresh Sound of Ukraine
Section: Nation
Author: Альона Сонько
