Ukrainian experts warn of growing influence of North Korean forces in Russia's war effort

Valeriia Semeniuk, in an article for Tagesspiegel, shared Ukrainian soldiers’ accounts of encounters with North Korean soldiers, along with expert analyses on the subject.

The presence of North Korean soldiers in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine has significantly altered the dynamics on the front lines, according to Ukrainian military personnel. Ukrainian sergeant Yurii Bondar, from the 80th Airborne Assault Brigade, described the contrast between Russian and North Korean tactics: "Russian soldiers at least wait until the sun rises. The North Koreans, on the other hand, have been storming us since 4:15 in the morning," Bondar shared with Tagesspiegel. He noted that North Korean troops are relentless, often regrouping in the midst of their attacks and continuing even when injured. "They are more motivated than Putin's troops," he added, pointing to their readiness to sacrifice their lives.

Bondar, who has been engaged in operations in the Kursk region for over five months, has encountered North Korean forces for approximately two months. Initially, Ukrainian soldiers underestimated the effectiveness of these troops, particularly due to the anticipated language barrier. However, Bondar explained that Russian soldiers often assist by signaling with red flares, guiding the North Koreans during attacks.

North Korean soldiers, despite their limited experience, are proving to be formidable opponents. Lieutenant Stanislav Krasnov from Ukraine’s 95th Airborne Brigade pointed out that North Koreans use large group formations, reminiscent of Russian tactics from the early stages of the invasion. "The North Koreans are what you call cannon fodder," Krasnov observed, referring to their willingness to endure heavy casualties to achieve their objectives. Estimates suggest that between 3,000 and 3,800 of the 12,000 North Koreans fighting alongside Russian forces have been wounded or killed.

Despite initial missteps in their attacks, such as chaotic advances and disorganized retreats, North Korean troops have adapted quickly. Bondar noted that their tactics have evolved over time: one group would draw attention while another flanked Ukrainian positions, and a third wave would attempt to secure the terrain. This strategy took the Ukrainian forces by surprise.

Military experts warn of growing numbers and arms deliveries

Military expert Pavlo Narozhnyi further sheds light on the role of North Korean forces, pointing out that three North Korean generals have been dispatched to the Kursk region. Their presence, alongside the 12,000 soldiers, suggests that Kim Jong Un’s forces are also studying modern warfare techniques. However, Narozhnyj emphasizes that North Korean troops have not yet significantly influenced the outcome of the war, as they make up less than 2% of the total Russian military force. Despite this, their presence has certainly bolstered Russian defenses in the Kursk region.

Oleksandr Kovalenko, a military and political observer, raises concerns over North Korea’s ongoing arms deliveries to Russia, which have occasionally gone undetected by intelligence agencies. These shipments reportedly include advanced weaponry such as the Pongae M-2020 missile system and Bulsae-4/5 tank destroyers. Kovalenko suggests that these deliveries may be helping Russia address critical shortages in artillery, military personnel, and air defense systems, with North Korea becoming an increasingly significant source of support for the Russian military.

Sergeant Bondar also notes that North Korean weapons, although based on older Russian models, are still highly effective on the battlefield. Despite not being as modern as Western armaments, these weapons are already well integrated into the North Korean forces’ combat strategy. "While we have to go to exercises to familiarize ourselves with Western weapon models, our opponents are ready to use them immediately on the front line," Bondar remarks.

This assessment by Ukrainian soldiers and military experts underscores the growing concern over North Korea’s role in the war. With thousands of soldiers already involved and more potentially on the way, the influence of North Korean forces, both in terms of manpower and military support, may become a significant factor in the ongoing war.