North Korean Soldiers Suffer Heavy Losses In Kursk Fighting

South Korean and US soldiers conduct a joint river-crossing exercise in Yeoncheon

Recent reports from Ukraine's defense intelligence service reveal that North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian troops in the Russian region of Kursk faced significant casualties over the weekend. The North Korean units, which arrived in Kursk last month, were engaged in assaults near three villages, resulting in approximately 30 soldiers killed or wounded, with three reported missing.

A Ukrainian frontline drone unit shared a video showing the bodies of over 20 North Korean soldiers in a field, although their identities could not be independently verified. Additionally, drone footage near Plekhovo captured soldiers retreating and evacuating casualties, raising questions about the nationality of the troops involved.

Reports suggest that North Korean soldiers employed tactics reminiscent of the Korean War, utilizing infantry attacks to advance on Ukrainian positions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the involvement of North Korean troops in combat, indicating a shift in their role on the front lines in Kursk since December.

Approximately 30 North Korean soldiers were killed or wounded in recent assaults near villages.

North Korean soldiers faced significant casualties in Kursk alongside Russian troops.

Drone footage showed bodies of over 20 North Korean soldiers in a field.

Ukraine estimates that around 12,000 North Korean soldiers are assisting Russian units in reclaiming territory lost to Ukrainian forces in August. The recent fighting near Plekhovo intensified as Russian forces attempted to push Ukrainian troops back towards the border, resulting in a fierce battle over the strategic village.

Despite facing heavy losses, the North Korean infantry, supported by Russian units, continued their advance with relentless fire support and electronic warfare tactics. Ukrainian forces managed to repel the assault and launch successful counterattacks to regain control of the situation.

While the exact status of the village of Plekhovo remains uncertain, the conflict underscores the complex dynamics at play in the ongoing military operations in Kursk. The involvement of North Korean soldiers alongside Russian forces adds a new dimension to the conflict, raising questions about the extent of their role and the impact on the overall situation in the region.