According to the reports on Wednesday (18 December), North Korean forces fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine’s Kursk region have reportedly suffered “several hundred” casualties, according to a senior US military official. The losses include soldiers of all ranks, attributed partly to their lack of combat experience. This estimate is significantly higher than previous reports from Ukraine, which mentioned around 30 casualties among North Korean troops.
The US official described the casualties as ranging from light injuries to soldiers killed in action (KIA). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky previously stated that Russia deployed 10,000 to 12,000 North Korean troops as “cannon fodder” in its efforts to repel Ukrainian forces from the Kursk region. Reports suggest North Korea’s involvement is tied to military cooperation agreements with Russia, possibly seeking advanced military technology and combat experience.
Meanwhile, Russia has vowed retaliation against Ukraine following the killing of senior Russian lieutenant general Igor Kirillov in a Moscow bombing, for which Ukraine claimed responsibility. Russia labeled the attack as “cowardly and despicable” and warned of severe consequences against Ukrainian leadership.
South Korean intelligence agencies are still verifying the reported casualties, with no official confirmation. The National Intelligence Service acknowledged gathering related information from multiple sources. This development comes amid South Korea’s current political instability due to President Yoon Suk Yeol’s suspension amid an impeachment trial.
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