In a significant development in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, both Ukrainian military intelligence and the Pentagon have confirmed the first combat deaths of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine's border region.
According to Ukraine's military intelligence agency (GUR), approximately 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded during battles near the villages of Plekhovo, Vorobzha and Martynovka in Russia's Kursk region. The agency also reported that at least three North Korean servicemen went missing near the village of Kurilovka.
Pentagon spokesperson Major-General Pat Ryder confirmed these reports, stating that US intelligence had found evidence of North Korean casualties in the Kursk region. The troops, primarily serving in infantry roles, began combat operations about a week ago.
The White House's national security spokesman John Kirby revealed that North Korean forces have moved from support positions to active combat roles on the front lines. In response to this escalation, Kirby promised stronger sanctions against North Korea.
Intelligence sources estimate that around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to Russia, with most stationed in the Kursk region. This area has been partially under Ukrainian control since August following a surprise incursion into Russian territory.
Military analysts point out that these North Korean forces face notable challenges, including limited combat experience and communication difficulties due to language barriers. While neither Pyongyang nor Moscow has officially acknowledged the deployment, the two nations have strengthened their military cooperation through a recent mutual defense treaty.
The Kremlin has not directly addressed these casualty reports, referring all inquiries to the Russian Ministry of Defense, which has yet to comment on the situation.
These developments mark the first confirmed deaths of North Korean troops since reports emerged of their involvement in the conflict, representing a new phase in the internationalization of the Russia-Ukraine war.