North Korean Soldiers in Ukraine: A Tragic Reality

Key Points

• North Korean soldiers face execution threats if captured in Ukraine.
• Over 12,000 soldiers deployed to Russia; significant casualties reported.
• Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers for the first time.
• North Korean soldiers lack modern battlefield training and experience.
• Defectors express concern over North Korea’s military alliances and propaganda.

Overview of North Korean Involvement in Ukraine

A former North Korean sergeant, Ryu Seong-hyeon, reveals why North Korean soldiers are reluctant to be captured in combat. According to Ryu, many would rather die than face the shame of being taken prisoner, fearing that their families would face execution upon their capture.

Ryu defected to South Korea in 2019, escaping through a minefield in the demilitarized zone that divides North and South Korea. His testimony sheds light on the North Korean military's operations in the ongoing Ukraine war.

Deployment and Casualties

It is estimated that over 12,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to Russia to support its efforts in Ukraine. Despite these reinforcements, the South Korean National Intelligence Service reported about 300 North Korean soldiers have died, with more than 2,700 injured.

Recently, the South Korean intelligence indicated that additional soldiers have been deployed to the front lines near Russia’s Kursk region, amidst ongoing Ukrainian offensives.

First Captures and Military Challenges

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the capture of two North Korean soldiers, marking the first instance of North Korean troops being taken alive. A video released after their capture showed one soldier expressing a desire to stay in Ukraine, highlighting their devastating lack of understanding of being involved in this conflict.

Reasons for High Casualties

Former defectors, Ryu and Pak Yusung, emphasize that North Korean soldiers lack proper training for modern warfare. The defectors noted that many North Korean military personnel have never encountered drones or modern combat techniques.

Intelligence assessments reveal that North Korea instructs its soldiers to commit suicide if captured to avoid sharing information with the enemy. This has resulted in massive casualties on the battlefield, attributed to their unpreparedness and outdated tactics.

Long-term Implications

The defectors are concerned that continued support for Russia may solidify stronger ties between North Korea and Russia. Pak suggests that these military exchanges could provide beneficial technology to North Korea and noted the potential for increased real combat experience for North Korea’s military forces.

Call for Global Awareness

Pak, alongside fellow defectors, is advocating for international condemnation of both Russia and North Korea. They urge the global community to hold Kim Jong Un accountable for his actions and to recognize the plight of North Korean soldiers who are being deceived by the regime’s propaganda.

“Think about it: your sons died on the battlefield, and not for your own country,” expressed Pak, emphasizing the tragic reality for families in North Korea.

Ryu echoed these sentiments, stating that the regime cannot continue to send so many individuals to labor camps without facing consequences.