Thousands of North Korean soldiers fighting in Russia’s war against Ukraine may not return home as heroes, and instead could face severe consequences, an expert has warned. Keir Giles, a Russia expert and author, explained that the North Korean troops might be stuck in Russia permanently due to the dangers they pose to the regime back home.
According to U.S. intelligence, as many as 10,000 North Korean soldiers are currently stationed in Russia’s Kursk region, preparing to fight in Ukraine. If their participation in the conflict proves successful, there’s a possibility that more troops could be sent to join the war. However, experts believe that once these soldiers experience life outside of North Korea, they may never be allowed to return.
Giles emphasized that Russia’s decision to keep the North Korean troops in its territory rather than allow them back to North Korea is driven by concerns over what they might bring back with them. He stated, “It would be dangerous for the North Korean regime to allow them back to infect others with knowledge of what they have seen.”
In fact, the troops may face similar fates to those of Soviet soldiers who returned from Europe after World War II, many of whom were purged and sent to labor camps.
The deployment marks North Korea’s first involvement in a large-scale conflict since the Korean War (1950-1953), and is part of a larger defense treaty between Russia and North Korea. Signed by leaders Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, the treaty emphasizes mutual military aid and cooperation in various sectors, including atomic energy, space, and trade.
Giles pointed out the high risks for the North Korean soldiers, particularly given the high casualty rates on the Russian side in the ongoing war. “If any of them survive, that is. With just 10,000 North Korean troops there, at the casualty rate on the Russian side, that’s about a week,” he said, suggesting that the soldiers may not last long in the harsh conditions of the conflict.
While this deployment could be seen as a trial run, Giles warned that without significant Western intervention, this cooperation between Russia and North Korea could expand further, making the troops’ situation even more precarious. The treaty also includes provisions for mutual defense, meaning that both countries are committed to coming to each other’s aid if attacked.
This development has raised concerns about the broader geopolitical consequences, as North Korea’s increasing involvement in international military conflicts further complicates the global balance of power.
