From Pyongyang To The Trenches: North Korean Troops In Russia’s War On Ukraine

Far from the isolated confines of their homeland, approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers find themselves enmeshed in Europe’s largest conflict since World War II—the war in Ukraine. Their deployment, shrouded in secrecy, has yet to be officially acknowledged by either Moscow or Pyongyang, but intelligence from the U.S., Ukraine, and South Korea confirms their presence on the battlefield.

Combat in the Kursk Region

North Korean troops have reportedly joined Russian forces in the western Kursk region, engaging in combat against Ukrainian positions. According to Ukrainian sources, at least 30 North Korean soldiers were killed or wounded in recent skirmishes, with casualties mounting since their deployment in October. Despite their numbers, these soldiers are facing challenges that range from unfamiliar terrain to modern, brutal warfare tactics.

One Ukrainian unit noted that North Korean troops, distinguishable by their unique uniforms, have employed outdated combat methods reminiscent of the Korean War. U.S. intelligence reports hundreds of casualties among these troops, including high-ranking officers.

An Elite Force or a Risky Gamble?

While many analysts consider the North Korean soldiers inexperienced and untested, others caution against underestimating their capabilities. Pyongyang has reportedly sent members of its elite Storm Corps, a highly trained special forces unit often compared to U.S. Navy SEALs or Britain’s SAS.

“These soldiers are better trained, better equipped, and more motivated than the average North Korean conscript,” said retired Lt. Gen. Chun In-bum of South Korea. The Storm Corps specializes in infiltration, sabotage, and direct assaults. State propaganda from Pyongyang has showcased their extreme physical training and resilience.

Michael Madden, an expert at the Stimson Center, emphasizes the psychological preparation of these soldiers, describing them as “programmed” and “indoctrinated” to endure harsh conditions. However, questions remain about how well their mental conditioning will hold up in the face of drone warfare, modern artillery, and relentless combat.

Struggles with Adaptation

Despite their elite status, North Korean troops face significant hurdles. They lack real-world battle experience and must adapt to the high-tech, chaotic warfront in Ukraine. Reports suggest language barriers are also an issue, with Russian instructors teaching basic military terms to the North Koreans to facilitate communication.

Drone warfare and Russia’s "meat-grinder" tactics—throwing waves of poorly trained soldiers into the fight—compound the risks for these troops. The U.S. has deemed them “fair game” for American-made weapons deployed by Ukraine.

Life in the North Korean Military

The hardships of military life in North Korea offer a stark contrast to their deployment abroad. Soldiers often endure malnutrition, grueling physical demands, and limited resources. Accounts from defectors paint a grim picture, with reports of parasitic infections, poor medical care, and rampant hunger among troops.

While special units like the Storm Corps receive better provisions, most North Korean soldiers live under dire conditions. Yet, the allure of a foreign deployment—along with promises of cash payments—may offer a rare incentive. Reports indicate these soldiers could be earning up to $2,000 a month in Russia, a fortune compared to the $1 monthly salary they earn at home.

The Stakes for North Korea and the World

The outcome of North Korea’s involvement in Russia’s war could have significant implications for the Korean Peninsula and beyond. If their troops succeed and gain combat experience, it could bolster North Korea’s military capabilities. However, failure on the battlefield could expose weaknesses in their forces, impacting the regime’s domestic and international standing.

“This deployment is a test for North Korea’s military,” said Chun. “Whether they succeed or fail, it will shape their role in future conflicts and their position on the world stage.”

As the war drags on, the world watches closely. Will these soldiers from one of the most secretive states in the world tip the scales, or will they become another casualty of a conflict that shows no signs of ending?