Additional Coverage:
- North Korean forces are being slaughtered fighting for Russia, harming combat operations, intel says (newsbreak.com)
Local North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine have suffered heavy casualties, according to Western intelligence. Estimates suggest approximately 4,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the fighting. These losses are reportedly impacting their combat effectiveness.
Around 11,000 North Korean troops were initially deployed to the Kursk region of Ukraine last fall. This deployment followed a Ukrainian offensive in the area.
By mid-January, roughly 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed and 3,000 wounded, according to a British defense ministry intelligence update. This represents over a third of the deployed force. The high casualty rate is believed to be hindering their ability to conduct offensive operations.
While the North Koreans have reportedly made some tactical gains, they’re also facing challenges. These include communication barriers due to language differences and difficulties integrating into the Russian command structure.
Prior to their deployment, these North Korean forces lacked significant combat experience. They received training in Russia on infantry tactics, drone operation, artillery, and trench warfare. Reports suggest they’ve been used in “human wave” attacks.
Despite the heavy losses, the North Korean troops have been described as disciplined and competent. Ukrainian soldiers have reportedly observed their combat skills. However, there are concerns about their treatment as expendable forces.
The increasing defense cooperation between North Korea and Russia has been noted. This includes a mutual military assistance pact and the provision of weapons from North Korea to Russia. Recently, Ukraine claimed to have captured two wounded North Korean soldiers in Kursk, one of whom reportedly believed he was being sent to Russia for training, not combat.