North Korean Troops Engage in Russia's War Against Ukraine

As of January 2026, North Korean troops are actively participating in Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, stationed in Kursk Oblast. According to Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), these soldiers are conducting artillery strikes and aerial reconnaissance against Ukrainian border communities. Their operations include the use of barrel artillery and multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), which are coordinated under Russian command. This military collaboration underscores North Korea's role as a significant ally to Russia during the conflict.

North Korean troops in Russia attack Ukrainian border communities, HUR saysRussia is training North Korea’s future army: 3,000 North Korean soldiers return home as war instructors

The deployment of North Korean soldiers is part of a broader strategy to enhance their military capabilities. Approximately 3,000 North Korean troops have returned to Pyongyang after their service in Ukraine, where they gained experience in modern warfare techniques, including drone operations and artillery correction. This training is expected to bolster North Korea's military technology development, particularly in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) deployment and high-intensity combat scenarios. The rotation of troops is facilitated by agreements between Moscow and Pyongyang, ensuring a continuous exchange of combat experience.

Russia is training North Korea’s future army: 3,000 North Korean soldiers return home as war instructorsNorth Korean troops in Russia attack Ukrainian border communities, HUR says

The military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is formalized through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement, signed by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This agreement emphasizes mutual support in the event of an attack and has led to the deployment of approximately 11,000 to 12,000 North Korean troops to Russia since June 2024. The partnership highlights North Korea's strategic interest in gaining advanced military skills while supporting Russia's efforts in Ukraine.

North Korean troops in Russia attack Ukrainian border communities, HUR saysRussia is training North Korea’s future army: 3,000 North Korean soldiers return home as war instructors

The involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict has raised concerns regarding regional stability in East Asia. Analysts warn that the skills acquired by North Korean soldiers could be used against neighboring countries, potentially escalating tensions in the region. The focus on mastering drone technology and modern combat tactics is seen as a direct threat to security in East Asia.

Russia is training North Korea’s future army: 3,000 North Korean soldiers return home as war instructors

Ukraine's Defense Intelligence has reported on the activities of North Korean troops, emphasizing the significance of their training in modern warfare. HUR noted, "A key objective of North Korea's participation in the war is mastering unmanned technologies and gaining hands-on experience in modern, high-intensity warfare." This statement reflects the strategic motivations behind North Korea's involvement in the conflict.

Russia is training North Korea’s future army: 3,000 North Korean soldiers return home as war instructors

• "A key objective of North Korea's participation in the war is mastering unmanned technologies and gaining hands-on experience in modern, high-intensity warfare." — HUR

North Korean troops in Russia attack Ukrainian border communities, HUR says

• "North Korea is a key ally to Russia during the full-scale invasion of Ukraine." — HUR

North Korean troops in Russia attack Ukrainian border communities, HUR says

• "The acquisition of combat experience with drones has become one of Pyongyang's primary goals in supporting Russia's invasion." — HUR

North Korean troops in Russia attack Ukrainian border communities, HUR says

The participation of North Korean troops in Russia's war against Ukraine represents a significant military collaboration that has implications for both regional and global security. As these soldiers return home with enhanced combat skills, the potential for increased military capabilities in North Korea raises alarms about future conflicts in East Asia.

Russia is training North Korea’s future army: 3,000 North Korean soldiers return home as war instructors