North Korean soldiers captured in Russia revealed at UN

During a speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed details regarding North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces. Ukraine has confirmed the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea, marking the first time live soldiers from the DPRK have been captured while fighting for Russia. These soldiers were reportedly captured in the Kursk region of Russia in January 2025.

Zelenskyy highlighted the extreme indoctrination of these troops, noting that one prisoner attempted suicide upon realizing he would be captured, stating that for such soldiers, death is preferred over capture. This behavior aligns with public rhetoric from Kim Jong Un, who has praised soldiers who commit suicide to avoid capture.

Estimates regarding North Korean involvement vary. While South Korean intelligence suggests approximately 6,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded since their deployment, Ukrainian and South Korean estimates suggest between 14,000 and 15,000 personnel have been sent to Russia since 2024. These figures may include additional support staff, such as construction units and female personnel.