North Korea Constructs Memorial for Troops Killed in Ukraine

Strategic Insights -

As construction began in Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, leader Kim Jong-un led the way in building a memorial to honor the troops who died fighting alongside Russia in the war against Ukraine. The Memorial Museum of Combat Feats will serve to "pray for the immortality of the proud heroes" who performed "undying feats in the overseas military operations". North Korean state media released dozens of photos from the ceremony held on Thursday, capturing the moment Kim Jong-un affectionately held the faces of uniformed soldiers in his hands.

Key Takeaways:

  • North Korea has started constructing a memorial in Pyongyang to honor its troops killed in Ukraine, with Kim Jong-un attending the ceremony.
  • The memorial, known as the Memorial Museum of Combat Feats, aims to "pray for the immortality of the proud heroes" who fought in overseas military operations.
  • At least 600 North Korean soldiers are believed to have been killed in Ukraine, with another 4,000 reportedly injured.
  • Kim Jong-un praised the strong ties between North Korea and Russia, calling them "rising to its historic peak", and said the two countries' "blood ties" were stronger than the US and its Western bloc.
  • The memorial will include photos, artwork, and sculptures depicting the "bloody battles" and the deceased soldiers.
  • Families of soldiers who died in Russia were present at the ceremony, along with officials from North Korea's regime and military.
  • A commemoration ceremony was held in August for the troops sent to Ukraine, with plans to build a new street in Pyongyang to honor the fallen, named Sappyol Street, meaning morning star.

Statistics:

  • At least 600 North Korean soldiers are believed to have been killed in Ukraine.
  • Another 4,000 North Korean soldiers are reportedly injured.
  • Kim Jong-un attended the ceremony for the memorial's groundbreaking in Pyongyang.
  • 8,000 soldiers were deployed to Russia, with Kim saying they had fought for one year in the Kursk region.
  • Russia and North Korea agreed to a strategic partnership agreement last year, providing "military and other assistance" to each other.

Sources:

  • [North Korean state media, Thursday]
  • [South Korea's unification minister, Friday]
  • [Kim Jong-un's speech, Thursday]
  • [Ukraine's military, last week]