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The Ukrainian military spoke about the peculiarities of North Korean soldiers’ tactics, their actions on the battlefield and the specifics of interaction with Russian forces.
North Korean troops have temporarily retreated from the front line in the Kursk region after suffering significant losses. According to the Armed Forces of Ukraine in an interview with Sky News, the DPRK soldiers were distinguished by their absolute determination and willingness to sacrifice, even in desperate situations:
- Refusal to surrender. The Ukrainian military emphasised that North Koreans resolutely refused to surrender, even in critical situations. Some of them blew themselves up with grenades to avoid capture. One case was illustrative: a DPRK soldier shouted “For General Kim Jong-un” before blowing himself up.
- Foot attacks in large groups. At the beginning of the hostilities, DPRK troops attacked in groups of 20-60 people, making them easy targets for Ukrainian drones and artillery.
- Brainwashed. DPRK soldiers continued to advance even after seeing their comrades wounded or killed, demonstrating fanatical resilience.
Despite the best rifles and uniforms, North Korean troops faced serious logistical problems:
- Lack of heavy armoured vehicles.
- Limited supplies: only ammunition and chocolate, no water or basic necessities.
Among the personal belongings of the deceased, Ukrainian soldiers found notebooks, homemade maps, letters to relatives, and photographs of families.
Poor interaction between North Korean and Russian forces complicates their actions on the battlefield:
- Language barrier. The lack of a common language sometimes leads to curious mistakes, such as the DPRK’s strike on Russian positions.
- The difference in equipment. DPRK soldiers have better uniforms and weapons than Russian troops.
The Ukrainian military noted that North Korean troops began retreating two weeks ago. However, intercepts of Russian communications indicate that DPRK soldiers may be returning to the battlefield.
