North Korean Casualties in Ukraine Conflict Surpass 4,000
The NIS reports over 4,000 North Korean casualties in the Ukraine conflict. Following substantial losses, North Korea is believed to have sent reinforcements. Reports indicate extreme measures taken by individuals to avoid conscription, alongside concerns regarding the potential for nuclear testing.
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) of South Korea has reported that casualties among North Korean troops fighting in the Ukraine conflict have surpassed 4,000. As noted by Rep. Lee Seong-kweun, these figures have been updated as of mid-March, increasing from approximately 3,000 as reported earlier in January. The losses constitute nearly one-third of the 11,000 troops North Korea initially deployed to assist Russia in this war.
Rep. Lee provided insights into North Korea’s military strategies, stating that the regime likely sent an additional 3,000 to 4,000 troops following a brief withdrawal from the front line in Kursk. He mentioned that North Korean forces had temporarily vanished from this area due to a casualty rate of about 30%, but were subsequently reinforced with new troop deployments.
The NIS further speculated that the casualties may encompass senior officers, with North Korea undertaking measures to obscure the extent of its military involvement. Lee expressed that the regime endeavors to repatriate the bodies of its deceased soldiers to maintain secrecy regarding its engagement in the conflict.
While there has been some claim from Ukrainian authorities that North Korean troops have influenced the outcomes of battles in the Kursk region, the NIS maintains that their involvement has not been decisive. According to Lee, these troops have largely been utilized as expendable assets in the ongoing warfare.
In an alarming twist, reports indicate that North Korean soldiers have been urged to take their own lives to avoid capture. Although North Korea does not officially acknowledge its military presence in Ukraine, the fear of looming conscription among young individuals has reportedly risen. Many families are reluctant to allow their children to be sent to war, with some resorting to self-inflicted injuries as a means of evading the draft.
Regarding North Korea’s potential for nuclear testing, Lee mentioned that the NIS believes the regime is fully prepared to conduct such tests at any moment, emphasizing that the only uncertainty lies in the timing of such an event.
In summary, North Korean troop casualties in the Ukraine war have exceeded 4,000, raising concerns about the recruitment of additional forces to replace losses. The NIS suggests that North Korean soldiers face dire circumstances, with some resorting to desperate measures to avoid conscription. Additionally, implications regarding potential nuclear weapon testing from North Korea remain a significant concern.
Original Source: www.koreaherald.com
