North Korea’s military, with 1.3 million members, has historically supported leader Kim Jong-un in maintaining control over the populace and countering threats from South Korea. Recently, over 11,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, marking a significant shift in North Korea's military engagement for financial and diplomatic gains.
The troops involved are from North Korea’s “Storm” Corps, known for their rigorous training and indoctrination. However, South Korea's National Intelligence Service reported that these forces were ill-prepared for drone warfare and the unfamiliar combat environment, leading to over 100 fatalities and around 1,000 injuries in their initial engagements. There are indications that a high-ranking officer may also have been among those killed.
As Kim Jong-un seeks to leverage the ongoing conflict in Europe to bolster his military and diplomatic strategies, he appears poised to send additional troops to Russia. The deployment of North Korean forces represents the country's first substantial involvement in an overseas military conflict.
Experts have noted the troops' lack of training in drone and trench warfare, which contrasts sharply with their previous focus on sniper tactics and urban warfare. The pandemic-related shutdown in North Korea has further hindered their regular training cycles. Intelligence officials indicated that the rapid deployment of these troops could complicate their integration into the Russian military, especially given their limited knowledge of military terminology in Russian.
Kim Jong-un, once underestimated for his youth and inexperience, has established himself as a formidable leader, ruling through a climate of fear and repression. Following his ascension in 2011, he executed or exiled several military leaders to consolidate power. Recent observations have noted the emergence of new generals within his inner circle, who have since been sanctioned by the United States and its allies for their roles in the ongoing conflict.
The soldiers deployed to Russia are likely from impoverished backgrounds, motivated by the prospect of financial gain and enhanced social status through military service. Reports indicate that North Korean soldiers could earn up to $2,000 per month while serving in Russia, despite the government retaining most of this sum. Additionally, participation in the conflict may offer them expedited membership in the Workers' Party, a significant status symbol.
Defectors suggest that, despite the risks, many soldiers view this deployment as an opportunity to improve their families' social standing, even if it comes at the cost of their lives. The North Korean regime is expected to regard casualties as a necessary aspect of gaining combat experience for potential future conflicts, particularly against the United States.