U.S. President Donald Trump says Kim Jong-un is-
“He happens to be a smart guy. Kim Jong-un is a smart guy.”
Trump also said Putin is a smart guy. Is Trump afraid of anyone he considers smarter than he is? It’s an interesting question, isn’t it?
Involvement of North Korean Troops in the Russia-Ukraine War: Deployment, Payment, and Compensation
1. Introduction
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has witnessed a notable development with the direct military involvement of North Korea alongside Russian forces. This marks a significant escalation in the military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, particularly in the context of Russia’s protracted engagement in Ukraine. This deployment is especially noteworthy as it represents North Korea’s first confirmed participation in a major armed conflict since the Korean War of 1950-1953.1 The decision by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to dispatch troops under a mutual defense treaty signed with Russia in June 2024 underscores a deepening alliance between the two nations.1 This treaty, considered the most substantial defense agreement between the countries since the Cold War, necessitates mutual military assistance in the event of an attack on either nation.1 The stated objective of the North Korean deployment, according to their Central Military Commission, is to support Russia in “annihilating and wiping out the Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers and liberating the Kursk area”.1 This development has triggered considerable concern within the international community, with the United States and its allies expressing apprehension over potential transfers of advanced weapons technology to North Korea and the violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions.1 This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the available information regarding the number of North Korean troops involved, their reported compensation, and the provisions for compensation in case of injury or death during combat..
The confirmation of North Korean troop deployment signifies a substantial shift in the dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine war and the broader geopolitical landscape involving these nations. While North Korea had previously been implicated in supplying arms to Russia, the direct deployment of combat troops represents a more profound level of commitment and suggests the potential for a sustained involvement in the conflict. This unprecedented move necessitates a thorough examination of its implications for regional and international security.
2. Estimated Number of North Korean Troops Deployed
Intelligence assessments from various sources indicate a significant deployment of North Korean military personnel to support Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. United States, South Korean, and Ukrainian intelligence officials estimated that between 10,000 and 12,000 North Korean troops were dispatched to Russia in the fall of the previous year.1 This marked North Korea’s first major military engagement outside its borders in decades. By March of the current year, South Korea’s military reported that approximately 4,000 North Korean soldiers had already become casualties, either killed or wounded, in the conflict.1 Furthermore, South Korean military intelligence assessed that an additional 3,000 North Korean troops were sent to Russia earlier in the current year.1 Ukrainian officials provided a slightly higher overall estimate, suggesting that around 14,000 North Koreans had been deployed, including 3,000 reinforcements to replace earlier battlefield losses.2 In contrast, the United States offered a lower estimate of around 1,200 casualties among the North Korean forces.2 The Pentagon also reported on the presence of North Korean troops in the Kursk Oblast, initially stating 10,000 in late 2024 and later revising the estimate to 11,000-12,000.9
Adding to these intelligence reports, North Korea officially confirmed its troop deployment for the first time. While the statement from Pyongyang did not specify the exact number of soldiers involved, it affirmed that troops were sent to assist Russian forces in the Kursk region, acting under the provisions of the mutual defense treaty.1 Russia also corroborated the presence of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside its forces in Kursk, with Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov acknowledging their “heroism” and “significant assistance” in regaining control of the region.2 The Ukrainian General Staff has claimed that Russia has suffered substantial losses, including a significant number of North Korean servicemen in the Kursk operational zone.13
The consistency across multiple intelligence sources points to a substantial deployment of North Korean troops, likely exceeding 10,000 personnel. The variations in casualty figures reported by different sources could be attributed to differing intelligence access, methodologies of assessment, or the dynamic and often opaque nature of battlefield reporting. North Korea’s official confirmation, despite the absence of specific numbers, validates the essence of these intelligence reports and publicly acknowledges their military involvement in the conflict. This confirmation, framed by North Korea as a fulfillment of their treaty obligations and a “sacred mission,” provides a crucial political context for understanding their participation.
| Source | Estimated Number of Troops | Estimated Casualties (Killed/Wounded) | Date of Estimate/Report |
| US Intelligence | 10,000-12,000 | – | Fall of Previous Year |
| South Korean Intelligence (Fall) | 10,000-12,000 | – | Fall of Previous Year |
| South Korean Military (March) | – | ~4,000 | March of Current Year |
| South Korean Military (Earlier This Year) | ~3,000 | – | Earlier This Year |
| Ukrainian Officials | ~14,000 | – | – |
| US Officials (Casualties) | – | ~1,200 | – |
| Pentagon (Initial) | ~10,000 | – | Late 2024 |
| Pentagon (Revised) | 11,000-12,000 | – | – |
| Ukrainian General Staff (Kursk Operational Zone) | – | >4,500 | – |
3. Reported Payment for North Korean Troops
Reports from South Korean intelligence agencies suggest that North Korean soldiers deployed to fight for Russia in Ukraine are receiving a monthly wage of approximately $2,000.14 This figure represents a stark contrast to the average monthly income for ordinary North Korean workers and soldiers, which defectors estimate to be less than $1.14 The significant disparity underscores the potential financial incentives for North Koreans to participate in this conflict.
However, observers speculate that the majority of these payments are unlikely to reach the individual soldiers. It is believed that the North Korean regime will likely retain a substantial portion, estimated between 90% and 95%, of the stipends, with the soldiers receiving only a small fraction.18 One North Korean defector disputed the $2,000 figure, suggesting that soldiers might receive meager compensation, possibly around $100 per month, similar to North Koreans on labor assignments in Russia.14 The Ukrainian government-run news platform United24 also indicated that it is probable that most of the funds would be controlled by the North Korean state.15
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the exact amount received by individual soldiers, the deployment offers significant economic benefits for North Korea as a nation. The participation of thousands of troops could generate substantial financial revenue for Pyongyang, potentially amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars annually.16 This influx of foreign currency could provide crucial relief to North Korea’s struggling economy, which has been grappling with financial and food crises.17 Furthermore, in exchange for providing both troops and conventional weaponry, North Korea may also be receiving essential resources from Russia, including shipments of rice to alleviate food shortages and potentially access to advanced Russian military technology to bolster its own defense capabilities.17
The considerable difference between the reported payment from Russia and the likely amount accessible to North Korean soldiers highlights a pattern where the North Korean state benefits significantly from the overseas labor and military deployments of its citizens. This arrangement serves as a crucial source of foreign currency for the Kim regime, which faces severe economic constraints due to international sanctions and internal economic challenges. The economic motivations for North Korea’s involvement appear to be a key factor driving their decision to deploy troops, offering a vital opportunity to secure much-needed financial and material resources while simultaneously strengthening their strategic alliance with Russia.
4. Compensation for Injured North Korean Troops
Specific details regarding compensation for North Korean soldiers injured while fighting in Ukraine are limited within the provided research material. However, examining the general compensation policies established by Russia for foreign fighters in its army can offer some insights. Until November 2024, Russia provided a flat compensation payment of 3 million rubles (approximately $30,000) to servicemen wounded in the conflict.29
In November 2024, the Russian government revised its compensation structure, introducing a tiered system based on the severity of the injuries sustained.29 Under the new regulations, soldiers with severe injuries continue to receive 3 million rubles (around $30,000 – $31,000).29 Compensation for minor injuries was set at 1 million rubles (approximately $10,000 – $10,300) 29, while those with other minor injuries would receive 100,000 rubles (around $1,000).29 Reports have surfaced indicating that obtaining these compensation payments can be challenging due to bureaucratic hurdles and the potential for medical commissions to downgrade the severity of injuries.29
It is worth noting a report suggesting that North Korean soldiers participating in combat might receive a total monthly compensation of up to $2,000.14 This amount could potentially encompass both their regular wages and any compensation for injuries, although this is not explicitly clarified. The Foreign Minister of Nepal mentioned a compensation amount of 3 million rubles ($41,300) for Nepali soldiers injured in the war, but it remains unclear whether a similar provision applies to North Korean soldiers.39
Given the limited specific information concerning injury compensation for North Korean troops, it is plausible that they are subject to the same general framework as other foreign fighters serving in the Russian army. The reported monthly payment might serve as a comprehensive package that includes both wages and potential injury benefits, or there could be separate, undisclosed agreements between North Korea and Russia outlining specific terms for injury compensation. The shift in Russia’s overall compensation policy towards a tiered system based on injury severity could have implications for all foreign recruits, including North Koreans, potentially affecting the total benefits they might receive in case of injury.
| Category of Soldier | Compensation Amount (Rubles) | Compensation Amount (USD) | Source/Date |
| Russian Soldier (Pre-Nov 2024) | 3,000,000 | ~30,000 | 29,… |
| Russian Soldier (Severe Injury – Post Nov 2024) | 3,000,000 | ~$30,000 – $31,000 | 29,… |
| Russian Soldier (Minor Injury – Post Nov 2024) | 1,000,000 | ~$10,000 – $10,300 | 29,… |
| Russian Soldier (Other Minor Injury – Post Nov 2024) | 100,000 | ~$1,000 | 29,… |
| Nepali Soldier (Injured – Reported) | – | ~$41,300 | 39 |
5. Compensation for Killed North Korean Troops
Examining the provisions for death benefits for foreign soldiers in the Russian army reveals potential insights into the compensation for families of killed North Korean troops. According to a decree issued in early 2024, the families of Russian soldiers killed in action are entitled to a compensation payment of 5 million rubles (approximately $68,800).31 This amount may have been subject to adjustments over time, with some reports indicating different figures.36 Additionally, there are reports of supplementary regional payouts and insurance coverage for the families of deceased soldiers, which could further increase the total compensation received.36
The Foreign Minister of Nepal stated that Russia has expressed readiness to compensate the families of Nepali soldiers killed in the conflict, with a proposed amount of around Rs7 million.39 This indicates a willingness on the part of Russia to provide death benefits to foreign recruits. However, it remains uncertain whether the families of deceased North Korean soldiers would receive a similar level of compensation.
In North Korea, Kim Jong Un has publicly stated that a monument will be erected in Pyongyang to honor the soldiers who have fallen in the conflict, and that the government will implement measures to provide preferential treatment and care for their families.1 This suggests a commitment from the North Korean side to acknowledge the sacrifices made by their soldiers and to provide some form of support to their bereaved families. However, there are also concerning reports indicating that Russia has, in some instances, concealed the deaths of soldiers to avoid the obligation of paying compensation to their families.38
The provision of death benefits to the families of North Korean soldiers is likely governed by agreements established between North Korea and Russia. While Russia has a system in place to compensate the families of its own soldiers and has indicated a willingness to compensate other foreign nationals, such as the Nepali soldiers, the specific terms and amounts for North Korean families are not explicitly detailed in the provided material. Given the strengthening alliance between the two nations, it is plausible that an agreement regarding death benefits exists. However, the lack of specific information suggests that the details might be part of a confidential arrangement or are still subject to negotiation. Kim Jong Un’s public pronouncements about honoring the fallen and supporting their families highlight the domestic political significance of this deployment and could be aimed at maintaining public support within North Korea.
6. Analysis and Comparison
The reported monthly payment of $2,000 for North Korean soldiers aligns with the salaries Russia has offered to other foreign recruits participating in the war. Reports indicate that individuals from outside the post-Soviet area have been offered monthly incomes ranging from $2,000 to $3,000.51 Online advertisements targeting citizens of Armenia and Kazakhstan featured initial payments and monthly salaries around $2,000.52 Similarly, Cuban recruits were reportedly offered approximately $2,000 per month, along with the prospect of Russian citizenship.53 These comparisons suggest that the compensation package for North Korean soldiers is consistent with the general rates offered by Russia to attract foreign fighters.
In terms of compensation for injuries and death, the tiered system implemented by Russia in November 2024 for wounded soldiers likely applies uniformly to all personnel serving in its army, including foreign fighters such as the North Koreans. The death benefits provided to the families of Russian soldiers are relatively substantial, and the indication of compensation for Nepali casualties suggests a similar level of commitment to other foreign recruits. It is reasonable to infer that the families of deceased North Korean soldiers might receive comparable benefits, although explicit confirmation is absent from the provided information.
The military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is driven by a confluence of strategic interests and economic necessities for both nations. For North Korea, the deployment offers significant economic advantages, including financial compensation, potential food aid, and the possibility of debt relief.16 Additionally, it provides a rare opportunity for North Korean troops to gain invaluable real combat experience in modern warfare scenarios.1 Furthermore, this collaboration strengthens their strategic alliance with Russia, potentially opening avenues for access to advanced military technology.1 The ideological alignment and support for Russia’s geopolitical objectives also play a role in fostering this partnership.2
From Russia’s perspective, the deployment of North Korean troops addresses its need for additional manpower, which has been strained by the significant losses incurred in the war.1 North Korea offers a large, disciplined, and relatively well-trained military force.1 Moreover, North Korea has also been a supplier of conventional weapons and ammunition to Russia, further bolstering its military capabilities.1 This military cooperation also serves to demonstrate that Russia has international support for its actions in Ukraine.1
The deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is a result of converging strategic interests and mutual benefits. North Korea gains crucial financial and potentially technological advantages, while Russia secures essential manpower and demonstrates international solidarity amidst the ongoing conflict. The reported payment levels for North Korean soldiers, while substantial in the context of North Korea’s economy, are consistent with the compensation offered to other foreign recruits by Russia, suggesting a standardized approach to remunerating foreign fighters.
7. Conclusion
In conclusion, the Russia-Ukraine war has seen the deployment of a significant number of North Korean troops, with estimates ranging from 10,000 to 12,000 personnel. While the exact figures remain uncertain, North Korea has officially confirmed its military involvement in support of Russian forces in the Kursk region. These soldiers are reportedly being paid around $2,000 per month by Russia, a substantial sum compared to average incomes in North Korea, although a significant portion of these funds is likely retained by the North Korean regime. Specific information regarding compensation for injured or killed North Korean troops is limited. However, it can be inferred that they are likely covered under Russia’s general compensation policies for foreign fighters, which include a tiered system for injuries based on severity and death benefits for families similar to those provided to Russian soldiers.
This military cooperation between North Korea and Russia has significant implications for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, regional stability in Northeast Asia, and the broader international security landscape. The deepening ties between these two nations, both facing international sanctions and diplomatic isolation, underscore a strategic alignment that could have long-term consequences. The international community remains concerned about the potential for further escalation, the transfer of sensitive military technologies, and the violation of international norms and resolutions. The involvement of North Korean troops marks a new and concerning phase in the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting the complex and evolving geopolitical dynamics at play.
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