North Korea Mourns Soldiers Killed in Ukraine, Acknowledges Military Support for Russia
Pyongyang, December 20, 2024 – North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has publicly mourned soldiers killed while fighting in Ukraine, marking the first open acknowledgement of his regime’s military support for Russia’s war effort. The move comes nearly a year after a notable military agreement between the two countries.
state news agency KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un attended a memorial event in Pyongyang for soldiers described as ”martyrs.” Images released by KCNA show the leader embracing grieving family members, including children, and laying medals on memorials dedicated to the fallen. He was also depicted kneeling before portraits of the deceased.
The involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict was initially denied by both Moscow and Pyongyang. However, reports from the United States, Ukraine, and South Korea indicate that thousands of north Korean soldiers first appeared on the battlefield in the Russian current region.
According to The Washington Post, Ukrainian forces were initially surprised by the North Korean soldiers’ deployment in large, uncamouflaged groups, resulting in significant casualties in early engagements. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in January that up to 4,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or injured, wiht only two captured.
Recent reports suggest a shift in the North Korean forces’ performance. The Washington Post notes that Ukrainian soldiers have observed the troops becoming more organized,better trained,and equipped. Documents recovered from deceased soldiers indicate a high level of motivation, with manny reportedly choosing to fight to the death, even using grenades rather than surrendering.
Alongside personnel, North Korea has reportedly supplied Russia with substantial amounts of ammunition, including artillery grenades.Kim Jong-un previously paid tribute to the remains of soldiers repatriated to North Korea in July, signaling a growing willingness to publicly acknowledge the country’s role in supporting the Russian war effort.