North Korean Troops Resume Combat Alongside Russian Forces in Ukraine

South Korean intelligence has confirmed that North Korean troops have returned to combat alongside Russia in the Kursk region. Following significant losses, new deployments are underway, potentially maintaining a consistent presence of North Korean forces in the conflict, which has already seen high casualty rates among them.

According to South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, North Korean troops have rejoined the conflict alongside Russian forces. Reports indicate that North Korean soldiers were redeployed to the frontline in Kursk during the first week of February after a temporary hiatus. The intelligence agency has suggested new troop deployments, although the specific number remains under investigation.

Reports from South Korean media suggest that Russian military transport operations have facilitated the movement of 1,000 to 3,000 additional North Korean troops in early January or February. This development follows previous assessments that noted North Korea sending approximately 11,000 to 12,000 troops to participate in the conflict in the Kursk region.

It has been estimated that Russia compensates North Korean soldiers approximately $2,000 per month, though it is expected that the majority of these funds do not reach the soldiers directly. Ukraine’s ambassador to South Korea mentioned the potential for maintaining up to 15,000 North Korean troops in the war, suggesting up to 100,000 troops could cycle through combat over a year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported that at least 3,800 North Koreans have been killed or injured in the conflict. The UK’s Ministry of Defence noted that some North Korean units have been withdrawn from frontlines, likely to recover and prepare for further engagement subsequent to substantial losses.

Among the forces deployed are elite units such as North Korea’s 11th Corps, known as the “Storm Corps.” However, U.S. reports have characterized North Korean assaults against Ukrainian positions as having led to dire losses, suggesting troop engagements have resulted in over 1,000 casualties within a week. Recently, Russian aggression in the Kursk region has intensified, which holds strategic importance for any future negotiations with Ukraine.

In summary, North Korean military involvement alongside Russian forces has resumed, with new troop deployments reported in the Kursk region. Despite heavy casualties suffered by North Korean troops, it is anticipated that a significant presence of these soldiers will be maintained for the duration of the conflict. The ongoing battles highlight the shifting dynamics and complexities present within the region as Russia intensifies its military efforts against Ukraine.

Original Source: www.businessinsider.com