3,500 North Korean Soldiers Training in Russia’s Far East; Possible Third Deployment

News Summary

North Korea has sent approximately 3,500 additional soldiers to Russia’s Far East for training, with a potential third wave of troop deployment to aid Russia’s war against Ukraine, according to South Korean lawmaker Yu Yong Weon.

Citing Ukrainian intelligence, Yu reported that around 1,500 North Korean troops have already been deployed near Russia’s Kursk region, with a total of 11,000 troops sent since October last year.

Ukraine estimates that about 4,000 North Korean casualties have occurred, with reports of severe endurance training and ideological conditioning among North Korean soldiers.

Commentary

Despite growing signs of dissent among the North Korean people, including within the military, over troop deployments to Russia, Kim Jong Un appears unable to stop sending his troops, as maintaining strong ties with Moscow has become essential for his regime.

While some may worry about the deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, this risky alliance is likely to fuel internal instability, potentially pushing the regime toward collapse.

As the war drags on and North Korean soldiers suffer heavy casualties, discontent within the ranks and among the public will only intensify, further weakening Kim’s grip on power.

What may seem like a strategic partnership with Russia could ultimately become a major liability, accelerating the downfall of the Kim regime.