In a rare public display of somber respect, Kim Jong-un commemorates North Korean troops who died fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. This event underscores the strengthened military alliance between North Korea and Russia, as Kim highlighted their sacrifices and contributions to Moscow's war efforts.
Kim Jong-un Honors Fallen Soldiers in Russia's Ukraine War Amid Growing Ties
Kim Jong-un Honors Fallen Soldiers in Russia's Ukraine War Amid Growing Ties
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un pays tribute to troops lost in the Ukraine conflict, showcasing military collaboration with Russia at a state event.
In a striking display of solemnity, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un recently honored troops who lost their lives in Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The event, aired on state television, demonstrated Kim's intent to solidify military ties with Moscow while paying tribute to those who fought valiantly. Kim, accompanied by his teenage daughter Kim Ju-ae, marked the occasion alongside a Russian delegation and a series of artistic performances in Pyongyang.
This gathering celebrated the anniversary of a mutual defense treaty signed between Kim and Russian President Vladimir V. Putin, emphasizing the collaboration between the two nations. For the first time, North Korean media publicly showcased images of their soldiers engaged in combat alongside Russian forces—reportedly numbering between 14,000 and 15,000 troops deployed to assist in the war.
South Korean intelligence has revealed that North Korean military support has included significant weapon shipments, with estimates of approximately 4,700 troop casualties, including 600 fatalities. In April, North Korea publicly acknowledged the deployment of its soldiers and pledged a monument in their honor within the nation’s capital.
During the televised tribute, footage of fallen soldiers and the arrival of their caskets was displayed, highlighting the country’s losses in the military engagement. The emotional backdrop was set to a song emphasizing the enduring memory of “heroes” as a female vocalist resonated through the audience, echoing Kim's message of sacrifice and resilience. This poignant event represents not only a tribute but a calculated effort by Kim Jong-un to reinforce the essential military partnership with Russia.
