Recently released images by the Russian Defense Ministry depict North Korean soldiers engaged in landmine clearing operations in the wartorn Kursk region of western Russia. This development is yet another indication of the strengthening military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.
In these images, North Korean troops are seen using detection gear, receiving guidance from Russian engineers, and even singing patriotic songs before beginning their tasks. A Russian instructor, identified by the call sign Veles, praised the North Korean troops, remarking, “They’re quick learners, attentive, and take notes diligently.” Another commander, known as “Resnik,” mentioned that these soldiers performed at par with Russia’s engineers.
Reports indicate that this North Korean involvement follows a military incident last year that played a role in thwarting a significant Ukrainian attack in western Kursk. Various intelligence sources from South Korea, Ukraine, and the West have suggested that around 14,000 North Korean troops were sent to Russia in accordance with a mutual defense agreement, although independent verification of these casualty figures remains elusive.
The Russian military channel, Zvezda, asserted that this demining unit was established at the direction of Kim Jong Un and claimed the North Korean engineers had prior experience with similar missions in their own country, supplemented by training from Russian military units.
Footage shared by the Russian Defense Ministry shows North Korean personnel beginning their operations by saluting their national flag, a gesture indicating their readiness to follow directives from Kim Jong Un. According to Russian officials, they have been trained to handle advanced NATO and Ukrainian landmines as well as counter-drone measures.
Current reports reveal that these North Korean engineers are utilizing Russian robotic demining technology, including systems called Stalker and Uranium-6. The East-to-West news agency reported that these engineers have started removing explosives to enhance safety for Russian forces, with Ukraine’s military intelligence chief noting that 6,000 engineers have been dispatched to Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy commented on the situation, indicating that the estimated number of North Koreans sent to assist Russia might be up to 12,000. He mentioned casualties on their side exceed 4,000, hinting that a significant portion may have perished.
Meanwhile, Russian military news sources have conveyed concerns about a substantial quantity of anti-tank and anti-personnel mines allegedly left by Ukrainian troops, many of which are said to be manufactured by NATO countries. Bloomberg could not independently validate the reports regarding battlefield conditions.
It’s noted that about 37 out of 64 towns in the Bolshe Soldatsky district remain inaccessible to civilians due to these mines. Further reports claim that the demining teams are still under threat from Ukrainian artillery and drone attacks, although this remains unconfirmed.
Ukrainian forces managed to gain control of parts of the Kursk region in August 2024, holding those areas for several months until Russian forces, supported by North Korean troops, reclaimed the territory.
Interestingly, Kim Jong Un remarked recently that military collaboration between North Korea and Russia is set to continue evolving without interruption.
