Not just money: The Independent uncovers why North Korean soldiers want to go to Russia
Illustrative photo: Media learned why North Korean soldiers want to go to Russia (Getty Images)
The isolation of North Korea from the world may affect the willingness of North Koreans to fight in Russia's war against Ukraine. Soldiers from North Korea may want to see other countries, The Independent reports.
As the media outlet states, North Koreans may perceive the opportunity to go fight in Ukraine as a once-in-a-lifetime chance. The payment they would receive for assisting Russia could also be enticing.
Specifically, North Korean soldiers might not be as miserable as they are often portrayed. Former comrades report that they may view their tour in Russia with pride as a rare opportunity to earn good money or as a chance to see a foreign country for the first time while providing privileged status for their families.
"Despite a gradual economic recovery in North Korea over the past 30 years, defectors say the average monthly wage for ordinary North Korean workers and soldiers is less than $1," The Independent writes.
According to media reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin promises $2,000 per month to each North Korean soldier. However, 90% of this amount will likely go to the North Korean treasury. Despite this, serving in Russia could earn a North Korean soldier between $1,200 and $2,400, which they are willing to risk for.
In addition, a trip to Russia could lead to better housing or admission to prestigious universities in North Korea, or a move from less prestigious areas to Pyongyang. Currently, moving from one province of the country to another requires government permission.
North Korean soldiers in Russia
According to American and European officials, North Korea has recently sent a number of military personnel to Russia to support its efforts in eastern Ukraine. It is known that some of these soldiers have already been relocated closer to the Ukrainian border, where they have been identified in Russian military uniforms and with Russian equipment.
This move by North Korea, according to Western experts, is a way to bolster support for Russia in the war and strengthen its relations with Moscow by providing military assistance in circumventing international sanctions.
Recently, Ukraine's permanent representative to the UN, Serhiy Kyslytsya, stated that North Korean soldiers are set to begin participating in combat against Ukrainian defenders as early as November.
