Kim Jong Un Comforts Families of Soldiers Who Died Fighting for Russia
PYONGYANG, North Korea – August 30, 2025:Kim Jong Un met with families of soldiers who died fighting for Russia in Ukraine, expressing his sorrow and promising them the government’s help. State media reported this well-planned event, the second this month, publicly acknowledging North Korean military deaths in the war. Intelligence reports say North Korea has sent over 10,000 soldiers to aid Russian forces, mostly in the Kursk region.
The state-run KCNA news agency quoted Kim saying he “grieved that he couldn’t save the lives” of the soldiers. The meeting shows the growing military partnership between North Korea and Russia, made official in a 2024 agreement. North Korea hasn’t said how many casualties there are, but South Korean intelligence estimates around 600 deaths and thousands wounded.
A Show of Empathy and Responsibility
This event was a crucial public relations move for Kim. He hosted the grieving families and promised them a good life. He also promised to build a monument in Pyongyang and name a street after the fallen soldiers’ families.
Kim said the government and army would take full care of the deceased soldiers’ children. He promised to raise them to be strong fighters like their fathers.
Last week, KCNA released photos of an emotional Kim hugging a returned soldier and kneeling before a portrait of a dead soldier. These actions, widely publicized by state media, are meant to honor the soldiers and their families.
North Korea’s Involvement
South Korean and Western intelligence agencies say North Korea has sent a large number of soldiers to Russia. They think over 10,000 soldiers were sent in 2024, mainly to the Kursk region.
Weapon shipments went with this military help. International intelligence sources say North Korea has given Russia artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems.
The casualty numbers, though not confirmed by North Korea, suggest the country’s troops are on a dangerous mission. The estimate of about 600 deaths suggests they are taking major losses.
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Growing Military and Diplomatic Ties
Sending troops and publicly recognizing the casualties is a direct result of the growing relationship between North Korea and Russia. The two countries signed a major military agreement in 2024, speeding up their cooperation.
This partnership gives North Korea key diplomatic and economic help while it deals with international sanctions. In return for military aid, North Korea probably will get support from Russia, including military tech and economic help.
The partnership will be seen again at an upcoming event in Beijing. Kim is set to attend a military parade next week with Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, marking Japan’s surrender in World War II.
Strategic Situation and What Could Happen
Using North Korean soldiers in the war helps Russia with its troop shortages. For North Korea, it’s a chance for its military to get experience in modern warfare.
Ukrainian officials say North Korean soldiers are disciplined and good at small arms combat and drone defense. This experience could be valuable for North Korea’s military improvement efforts.
Kim’s public condolences send a strong message to the North Korean people and military. They support the sacrifices being made in a foreign battle and reinforce the idea of a shared fight with a key ally.
The international community, mainly the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, is very concerned about this growing cooperation. They see it as a threat to regional and global security and fear it could empower North Korea.
