In brief
In an unprecedented announcement, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un confirmed the deployment of troops to assist Russia in the ongoing Ukraine war and announced plans to honor the fallen with a monument in Pyongyang.
North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, has ordered the construction of a monument dedicated to North Korean soldiers who lost their lives while fighting for Russia in its conflict against Ukraine. This marks a significant development as it is the first time that North Korea has acknowledged its military involvement in the war, with state media disseminating the news earlier this week.According to a statement from the Central Military Commission of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, Kim’s decision to send troops to support Russia last year represents “a new chapter of history” reflecting a robust strategic alliance between the two nations. The acknowledgement comes alongside praise from Russian military chief Valery Gerasimov for the “fortitude and heroism” displayed by North Korean forces. He noted their significant contributions to recapturing territories previously lost to Ukraine, particularly in the Kursk region.In Kim’s statement, he commended the bravery of his troops, stating that “as many as 4,000 North Korean soldiers” have been reported killed or injured while collaborating with Russia, as indicated by assessments from both South Korean and Ukrainian observers. He announced that a monument will be erected soon in the capital, Pyongyang, where flowers will be laid in memory of the deceased soldiers.The establishment of this monument and public acknowledgment of military casualties underscores North Korea's deepening involvement in the Ukraine conflict and its commitment to supporting Russia amid ongoing global tensions.
