Kathrine Frich
The report cited 15 cases of drunkenness in a single month, along with multiple fights, thefts, and even attempted rapes.
The report cited 15 cases of drunkenness in a single month, along with multiple fights, thefts, and even attempted rapes.
Once a Symbol of Discipline
Reports are emerging of North Korean troops deployed in Russia allegedly terrorising local civilians with drunken violence, theft, and even attempted sexual assault.
Once touted as a symbol of strict discipline, Kim Jong-un’s soldiers now appear to be sparking chaos in Putin’s war machine.
Kim Jong-un Sent Thousands to Boost Putin’s Failing Army
Last year, Pyongyang sent around 11,000 troops to Russia to support Kremlin forces on the front lines.
These North Korean reinforcements were meant to bolster Russian units in the Kursk region, particularly after heavy losses during Ukraine’s August counteroffensive.
War Discipline Breaks Down
But discipline has quickly unraveled.
A leaked message from a Russian unit in Tuva described a disturbing breakdown in military order among the North Koreans.
The report cited 15 cases of drunkenness in a single month, along with multiple fights, thefts, and even attempted rapes.
“Don’t Give Them Weapons”
Russian soldiers working alongside North Korean troops are reportedly terrified.
One insider message claimed: “It’s not only scary to turn your back on them, you don’t even want to arm them.”
The supposed discipline of Kim’s forces, they added, “evaporated the moment they had any freedom.”
Civilians Report Theft and Violence by Korean Troops
Civilian communities near deployment zones have allegedly been targeted in a wave of misconduct by foreign troops.
Locals have reported break-ins, assaults, and drunken altercations, all pointing to a dire failure of military oversight.
Pyongyang’s War Casualties Mount
According to South Korean intelligence, North Korean forces in Russia have taken heavy losses.
Around 4,000 of the original contingent are believed to have been killed or wounded in combat.
In response, Kim Jong-un is said to have sent an additional 3,000 troops earlier this year.
North Korea Also Shipping Ammunition and Missiles
In addition to manpower, Pyongyang has supplied Moscow with millions of rounds of ammunition, ballistic missiles, long-range artillery systems, and rocket launchers.
The shipments have given Russia a critical advantage on the battlefield, at least on paper.
A Military Alliance Steeped in Blood and Chaos
North Korea and Russia continue to deepen their military ties.
Kim Jong-un recently referred to his nation’s relationship with Russia as a “blood-sealed bond” and personally thanked “Comrade Putin” for the alliance.
But as reports of misconduct grow, that bond looks increasingly toxic.