Over 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed by Russia to Ukraine, with about 4,000 casualties. Personal items from fallen troops reveal their mental struggles and loyalty to their regime, alongside messages of hope. A soldier’s note expresses regret and desire for redemption, while an unverified message from Kim Jong Un offers encouragement.
In response to troop shortages, Russia has reportedly deployed over 10,000 North Korean soldiers to assist in the Ukraine conflict, with approximately 4,000 of these individuals reported as either killed or wounded. The psychological toll of combat is reflected in personal items and notes left behind by these soldiers, which were acquired by Nikkei from the Special Operations Forces of Ukraine.
An examination of these artifacts reveals a complex emotional landscape; they express not only extreme mental strain but also a profound loyalty to the Workers’ Party of Korea and a semblance of hope. Nikkei collaborated with Ukrainian officials and a former North Korean soldier to analyze these items from fallen North Korean troops.
One poignant note from a soldier named Jong Gyong Hong reflects deep self-reproach and a desire for redemption, stating, “I have betrayed the love and grace of the party and turned my back on the grace of the supreme commander.” His message concludes with optimistic aspirations to reunite with his party after his eventual return. Another item, purportedly a note from Kim Jong Un, expresses encouragement, stating, “Come back home safe and sound. Never forget that I am always praying for your safe return,” although the note’s authenticity remains unverified.
The deployment of North Korean soldiers in the Ukraine war highlights the human cost of this conflict, with thousands affected in the battle. The personal notes reveal the soldiers’ mental struggles and the values instilled in them by their regime, reflecting a complex interplay of loyalty, hope, and desperation. Moreover, the ambiguous nature of a note attributed to Kim Jong Un underscores the intricate psychological dynamics at play.
Original Source: asia.nikkei.com
