Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that multiple wounded North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces have died from their injuries. The soldiers were reportedly deployed by Russia with "minimal protection" in combat operations.
While the exact number of casualties was not disclosed, Zelensky indicated in his evening address that the captured North Korean troops had sustained severe injuries and could not be resuscitated despite medical intervention.
The incident highlights growing concerns about North Korea's military involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Intelligence reports suggest that North Korea has sent thousands of troops to support Russian forces, with estimates indicating between 1,000-3,000 North Korean casualties so far.
South Korea's intelligence agency confirmed that at least one North Korean soldier died while in Ukrainian custody. The agency attributes the high casualty rate among North Korean troops to their unfamiliarity with modern battlefield conditions and vulnerability to drone warfare.
U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby reported that Russian commanders appear to be using North Korean soldiers as "expendable" forces, sending them on high-risk missions. Some North Korean troops have reportedly taken their own lives to avoid capture, fearing consequences for their families back home.
The military cooperation between North Korea and Russia has strengthened following a defense agreement signed in June. South Korean military analysts believe North Korea aims to modernize its conventional warfare capabilities through combat experience in Ukraine, while providing Russia with military equipment including rocket launchers and artillery.
This development has prompted South Korea to consider revising its policy on weapons supply to Ukraine, potentially marking a shift in its stance on providing arms to nations in active conflict.