I thank everyone around the world who has responded to the arrival of North Korean soldiers in Russia—and especially those who have responded not only with words but are preparing actions in support of our defense here in Ukraine.
Unfortunately, terror can spread like a virus… pic.twitter.com/HypHmfdna8
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 5, 2024
North Korean soldiers deployed to the frontlines in Ukraine have gained unrestricted internet access for the first time, according to a report by Financial Times correspondent Gideon Rachman. Rachman cited a generally reliable source who claimed that the soldiers are using this newfound access to consume pornography. The U.S. Department of Defense, however, could not confirm these reports.
Army Lt. Col.
“Given the enormous signals intelligence capabilities that the Defense Department has, one might assume that the Pentagon would have a good idea of whether horny North Korean troops are at risk of bringing down the entire Russian network.”
— Oriana Pawlyk (@Oriana0214) November 5, 2024
Charlie Dietz told Task & Purpose, “As entertaining as that sounds, I can’t confirm any North Korean internet habits or virtual ‘extracurriculars’ in Russia. We’re focused on the more serious aspects of North Korea’s involvement, if any, in Russia’s military operations.”
Over 10,000 North Korean military personnel have arrived in Russia, with a "significant number" of soldiers already stationed near frontline areas, including the Kursk region
This was reported by South Korean Ministry of Defense spokesperson Jeon Ha-kyu. pic.twitter.com/gExbnpboBF
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) November 5, 2024
Approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent by Kim Jong Un to support Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine, according to reports.
North Korean troops in Ukraine
On November 6, North Korean troops reportedly clashed with Ukrainian forces for the first time, occupying a section of the Kursk region in Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed this initial combat engagement, stating that around 11,000 North Korean soldiers are already in the Kursk region.
South Korea’s Defence Ministry reported that a considerable number of these troops have been dispatched to front-line areas. As of Wednesday, the South Korean presidential office indicated that the North Korean troops had not yet engaged in full-fledged combat with Ukrainian forces. The Pentagon emphasized that their primary concern is the serious aspects of the North Korean military relationship with Russia, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
This report has raised various strategic concerns about the involvement of North Korean troops in Ukraine and their potential impact on the escalating conflict.