Approximately 600 North Korean troops have been killed while fighting alongside Russia against Ukraine, as per South Korean intelligence reports. North Korea, having deployed around 15,000 troops to the conflict, has suffered a total of 4,700 casualties, including both deaths and injuries. Despite the losses, North Korean forces have shown marked improvements in combat capabilities by adapting to modern weapons like drones over the past six months. This military engagement is part of a defense treaty with Russia, wherein North Korea agreed to supply troops and weapons in exchange for technical assistance. Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed gratitude to North Korea, emphasizing the heroism of their forces, while South Korea reports the cremation and return of North Korean soldier remains from Kursk, Russia, back to their home country.

North Korea has confirmed sending troops to fight alongside Russia against Ukraine, marking their first public acknowledgment of such involvement in the ongoing conflict.

The deployment of North Korean troops is part of a defense treaty with Russia, which includes the provision of troops and weapons in exchange for advancements in military technology such as spy satellites and anti-air missiles.

North Korean forces, consisting of approximately 15,000 troops, have incurred around 4,700 casualties, which encompass both fatalities and injuries, during their engagement in Ukraine.

In the past six months, North Korean troops have improved significantly in combat effectiveness, leveraging modern military technologies such as drones to enhance their operational capabilities.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly thanked North Korea for their military support, acknowledging the sacrifices made by North Korean soldiers and promising to remember their contributions.

South Korean intelligence reports that the remains of deceased North Korean soldiers have been cremated in Kursk, Russia, before being repatriated to North Korea.

The geopolitical relationship between Russia and North Korea has strengthened, with both countries moving closer in recent years, as evidenced by their military and technical cooperation.