Pentagon confirms deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers in Russia's Kursk

At least 10,000 North Korean military personnel have been deployed to Russia's Kursk region, according to Pentagon officials, though there is no confirmation yet that they have engaged in combat operations.

US Department of Defence spokesperson Pat Ryder revealed the information during a briefing on November 6, 2024, per Caliber.Az.

He stated that, following the reassessment of new intelligence, the number of DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) troops stationed in Russia may actually be closer to 11,000 to 12,000, with approximately 10,000 now in the Kursk region.

While the Pentagon has acknowledged reports that North Korean soldiers may be preparing for combat, Ryder emphasized that these claims have not been verified. He did, however, confirm that the DPRK forces are receiving Russian uniforms and equipment, and are positioned in the Kursk region to provide "some capability."

Ryder added, "All indications are that they will provide some type of combat or combat support capability," but did not clarify whether the North Korean troops are integrated with Russian units or operating as independent formations.

This development follows a report from South Korea's Ministry of Defence, which on November 5, 2024, announced that about 10,000 North Korean troops are stationed in Russia, with a significant number of them sent to the frontline. The South Korean military has expressed concerns that these forces may soon join Russian troops in combat operations near Kursk, a region bordering Ukraine.

“We understand that more than 10,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, and a significant number have been deployed to frontline areas, including Kursk,” said South Korean Defense Ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha-kyou, noting that intelligence agencies are closely monitoring the situation.

By Tamilla Hasanova