Kim Jong Un Praises North Korean Troops Fighting Overseas

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised soldiers participating in “overseas military operations” during celebrations marking the 78th anniversary of North Korea’s founding, according to state media KCNA.

Speaking at an assembly hall in Pyongyang on Wednesday, Kim thanked workers and military personnel for their contributions to the country. He also expressed special gratitude and respect to commanders and soldiers involved in operations abroad, an apparent reference to North Korean troops deployed to support Russia in its war against Ukraine.

North Korea has strengthened its military cooperation with Russia in recent years, including by supplying troops and munitions. Western and South Korean officials estimate that Pyongyang has deployed approximately 14,000 to 15,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russian forces since late 2024.

The deployment has reportedly resulted in significant casualties. In February 2026, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service estimated that about 6,000 North Korean troops had been killed or wounded while participating in the conflict.

South Korean authorities have also been monitoring signs that Pyongyang could send additional forces to Russia. In late August, South Korea’s Defence Ministry said North Korea was continuing preparations for another potential troop deployment. However, officials said there were no indications at the time that additional forces would be sent imminently.

The growing Russia-North Korea military partnership has drawn close attention from Seoul and Western governments. South Korean intelligence assessments indicate that Pyongyang has received economic support and military technology assistance from Moscow in exchange for providing Russian forces with soldiers and weapons.

Kim’s latest remarks underscore North Korea’s increasingly public acknowledgment of its troops operating overseas and highlight the deepening military relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow as Russia’s war in Ukraine continues.