North Korean Troops Face Heavy Losses Fighting Alongside Russia in Ukraine

At least 100 North Korean soldiers have been killed and 1,000 injured in battles near Kursk, raising questions about their battlefield effectiveness.

Ukraine and South Korean intelligence report significant casualties among North Korean troops deployed to support Russian forces, with over 100 killed and 1,000 injured in recent fighting near Kursk.
North Korean soldiers, reportedly lacking experience in drone warfare and open terrain combat, are described by Russian officers as a burden on the battlefield.
Ukraine claims to have inflicted heavy losses on North Korean units using drones and special operations, with some units suffering dozens of casualties in a single engagement.
Pyongyang has not confirmed the presence of its troops, but analysts suggest North Korea's alliance with Russia includes troop deployments and arms shipments in exchange for potential military modernization support.
The deployment of North Korean forces has drawn international criticism, with the U.S. and allies warning of an escalating conflict and urging North Korea to withdraw its troops.