Kim Jong Un Honors Fallen Soldiers in Ukraine War, Highlighting Growing Ties with Russia

At an emotional award ceremony, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un honored his country's fallen soldiers who fought in Russia's war against Ukraine, referring to them as "heroes." This event marked a rare public acknowledgment of the losses Pyongyang has suffered in the conflict. State media reported that Kim expressed deep gratitude and respect to those who returned home after participating in the war.

Kim was quoted as saying that the victory achieved by the soldiers was a great feat that defended the honor of the Korean People’s Army. Photos released by state media depicted Kim pinning commendation badges on soldiers and on photo frames of deceased soldiers. He was also shown meeting with and embracing the grieving family members of the fallen soldiers.

The ceremony included Kim laying a flower on a memorial wall and paying a silent tribute. The event took place a week after Kim received a letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who also described the North Korean troops as "heroic." Putin's letter highlighted the strong bonds of friendship and mutual aid between the two countries.

The relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow has grown closer since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Kim and Putin signed a mutual defense pact last year. Experts suggest that North Korea may have sent troops to Russia in exchange for advanced military technology.

While neither Russia nor North Korea initially confirmed the deployments, it is believed that Pyongyang sent its first soldiers last fall. According to South Korean, U.S., and Ukrainian officials, the number of troops involved could be as high as 15,000. South Korea's spy agency estimates that approximately 600 soldiers have been killed, with thousands more injured.

Despite having one of the largest militaries in the world, North Korean troops have limited combat experience since the Korean War. However, they are known for their strong loyalty to Kim and are trained to prioritize their own lives rather than surrender. According to South Korean intelligence, there was at least one incident where a North Korean soldier died while trying to detonate a grenade to avoid capture. The exact number of North Korean troops still deployed on the frontlines is unknown. South Korean lawmakers have suggested that North Korea might deploy additional troops to Russia and continue supplying arms to Moscow.