North Korean troops join Russian marines and paratroopers - Seoul
Photo: DPRK soldiers thrown to Russian paratroopers and marines in the Kursk region (Getty Images)
North Korean soldiers have reportedly been integrated with Russian airborne troops and marines, with some already participating in military operations in the Kursk region, according to South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS).
The NIS disclosed that North Korean troops were deployed to Russia's Kursk region at the end of last month. They have been assigned to Russian Airborne Forces and Naval Infantry units. These soldiers are undergoing tactical training, including counter-drone operations, and some have already joined frontline combat.
“We believe there have been casualties as North Korean troops have begun engaging in advanced battles,” the NIS stated.
The NIS estimates that North Korea may have sent between 10,900 and 12,000 soldiers to Russia. Additionally, North Korea has reportedly supplied Russia with 170-mm self-propelled howitzers and 240-mm multiple rocket launch systems, now positioned along firing lines.
DPRK soldiers in Russia
North Korean troops underwent training at military ranges in eastern Russia before being dispatched to areas near the Ukrainian border. Some have already participated in combat against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region.
According to the Financial Times, North Korea has also provided Russia with long-range missile and artillery systems.
Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha commented that North Korea is likely seeking advanced technologies from Russia in exchange for its military support. These include missile, nuclear, and other military technologies.
