North Korea admits its troops died in Russia’s war
CNN · Just In
CNN
Just In
For the first time since sending troops to fight in Ukraine, North Korea is publicly confirming combat deaths, an abrupt reversal after months of silence and denial. State media broadcast an emotional ceremony featuring Kim Jong Un, troops honored for valor, and families of more than 100 fallen “heroes.”
Breakdown
- North Korea publicly admits for the first time that its troops died fighting for Russia.
- Kim Jong-un honors fallen soldiers at a memorial in Pyongyang, displaying over 100 portraits. 14s
- North Korea sent 11,000 troops to Russia in late 2024, with about 4,000 killed or injured. 24s
- Kim awards medals of valor and consoles families of the deceased soldiers. 39s
- Experts believe the ceremony signals North Korea’s expectation of future support from Russia. 55s
