Over 3,000 North Korean Soldiers Killed or Injured in Russia’s Kursk Region, Zelenskyy Claims

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy disclosed that over 3,000 North Korean troops, fighting alongside Russian forces in the Kursk Oblast, have been killed or wounded. This revelation highlights the escalating military involvement of North Korea with Russia, raising concerns about regional security. The rising casualty numbers indicate a significant increase in North Korean support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Rising Casualties and Military Support

Zelenskyy’s comments point to a surge in North Korean casualties in Russia’s Kursk region. This figure greatly exceeds earlier estimates by South Korea’s intelligence agency, which reported approximately 1,100 casualties. Ukraine’s intelligence indicates North Korea may deploy more troops and military assets, including kamikaze drones and artillery, to assist Russian forces.  

The international community expresses concern as North Korea and Russia deepen their military ties. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed Pyongyang’s preparations to send additional troops and military equipment, such as 240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery. North Korea’s mass production of suicide drones, used by Russia in Ukraine, is a key focus.

Fake Military IDs and Deception

Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces reported that North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia received fake Russian military IDs. These IDs, seized in the Kursk region, feature Russian names and birthplaces, but signatures remain in Korean. This deception aims to conceal North Korean troop involvement and mislead international observers.

Geopolitical Tensions and Regional Security Risks

The growing North Korea-Russia cooperation in Ukraine fuels fears of regional instability. Zelenskyy’s remarks emphasize the risks to the Korean Peninsula and surrounding regions. North Korea’s continued military support for Russia may further destabilize the region and escalate global tensions.  

The use of fake military IDs and the deployment of additional troops and weapons illustrate the extent of Russia and North Korea’s commitment to the war in Ukraine. This collaboration complicates peace and diplomatic efforts, deepening the conflict’s geopolitical implications. This geopolitical tension may have an effect on the availability and pricing of materials used in defense industries. SuperMetalPrice will continue to monitor the impact of this on global metal markets.