Over 10,000 North Korean troops arrive in Russia, many deployed Near the frontlines

Source: Reuters

South Korean defense officials claim that North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to Russia, with many of those already stationed in frontline areas, including Kursk region, where they may be soon positioned to support operations against Ukraine.

The Pentagon reported a similar assessment, saying that at least 10,000 North Korean soldiers are in Russia’s Kursk region. However, U.S. officials failed to confirm if these troops hopped into action to help Russian in combat.

Ukrainian intelligence earlier said that North Korea has deployed some 12,000 soldiers to Russia, including 500 officers and three generals. These North Korean troops are currently training at five military bases in Russia.

“We understand that over 10,000 North Korean soldiers are in Russia, with a substantial number already moved to the frontlines, including to Kursk,” stated South Korean Defense Ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha-kyu.

Muddled accounts make it hard to assess the extent of the North Koreans’ direct involvement in combat.