Around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, according to a South Korean lawmaker. The casualties were revealed after North Korea confirmed sending troops to support Russia.

BulletsIn

• Around 600 North Korean soldiers killed, 4,700 casualties total
• Casualties were confirmed by South Korea’s National Intelligence Service
• North Korea acknowledged troop deployment to assist Russia
• Soldiers fought in Ukraine’s Kursk region, aiding Russian advances
• North Korea has sent 18,000 soldiers in two phases
• About 2,000 soldiers repatriated this year, isolated in Pyongyang
• Dead soldiers cremated in Kursk before returning home
• Reports of misconduct within North Korean forces, including theft and excessive drinking
• North Korean combat capabilities have improved with modern weaponry
• North Korea and Russia strengthen military ties, increasing alarm globally