North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses as they engage alongside Russian forces in the Ukraine War, particularly in the contested Kursk region. Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, GUR, reported significant casualties resulting from Ukrainian strikes, especially near Novoivanovka.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed significant insights earlier this week, stating roughly 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded since their deployment to aid Russia. This marked the first substantial estimate of North Korean casualties, weeks after Ukraine announced between 10,000 to 12,000 troops from Pyongyang had joined the conflict.
The Ukrainian incursion, which began last August, has prompted Russia to divert troops and resources, showcasing the impact of Ukraine's military actions on the battlefield. Despite the setbacks, the Russian army has attempted to reclaim territory but has failed to completely expel Ukrainian forces from the region.
Military operations have intensified on both sides, with recent Russian airstrikes aimed at Ukraine's infrastructure demonstrating the fierce fighting. Reports indicate Russia launched 78 missiles along with 106 drones on Christmas, targeting power facilities across Ukraine.
Meanwhile, additional troubling news emerged when South Korea’s National Intelligence Service confirmed the death of a North Korean soldier captured during the conflict. Though initially alive upon capture, severe wounds later claimed his life. This incident marked the first acknowledgment of Ukrainian forces capturing a North Korean soldier.
The National Intelligence Service, which is Seoul's spy agency, disclosed the identity of this soldier, reflecting the dire circumstances North Korean units face as they engage alongside tens of thousands of Russian troops. It also highlighted the challenges these North Koreans endure, as Ukrainian strikes reportedly induce not only heavy casualties but also logistical hurdles, including dire shortages of drinking water.
North Korean involvement has escalated since the start of the Ukraine War, particularly after the defense pact signed between Russia and North Korea this past June. South Korean politicians have described North Korean forces as “expendable front-line assault units,” emphasizing the perils these soldiers face.
