South Korean and US intelligence services have confirmed the participation of North Korean soldiers in hostilities in Russia, particularly in Kursk Oblast. Source: ISW Details: South Korea's National Intelligence Service reported on 13 November that North Korean troops were participating in hostilities in Russia,

"Today I can confirm that over 10,000 (North Korean) soldiers have been sent to eastern Russia, and most of them have moved to the far western Kursk Oblast, where they have begun engaging in combat operations with Russian forces,

Ukrainian officials expect a counteroffensive in western Russia to begin in the coming days as North Korea’s troops train with Russian forces.

A former North Korean soldier says even the country’s elite troops are ill-prepared for frontline action against Ukraine, making them highly vulnerable to defeat and death.

Nearly all would raise their hands to go, ex-military defectors explain, owing to regime loyalty, promise of higher status and a glimpse of the outside world.

The presence of North Korean soldiers alongside Russians fighting Ukraine raises many tactical and military questions, leading some analysts to wonder about their effectiveness and ultimate objectives.